Ford Escape Transmission Problems (Fixed)  

A popular compact SUV, the Ford Escape is known for its ample interior, sleek design, and versatile capabilities.

However, owners have had transmission issues that impact performance and raise the question of long-term reliability.

In this article, we’ll discuss the most common Ford Escape transmission problems owners can experience, what to look for to detect issues, and how to remedy them.

What Are The Transmission Issues with the Ford Escape?

Ford Escape models, particularly those made between 2008 to 2018, have developed transmission issues. The worst-off problems are outlined below: 

Transmission Slipping  

• Symptoms: When the transmission “slips,” it can look like your car can’t change gear, or the engine will start rumbling with no acceleration. This is a common problem for many Ford Escape owners. 

• https://howwedrive.com/pink-fluid-leaking-from-car/Causes: Transmission slip on the Escape is typically caused by worn transmission bands, a defective solenoid, or a fluid leak. It can also be caused by low or damaged transmission fluid. 

Delayed or Harsh Shifting  

• Symptoms: Motorists experience delayed gear changes or a “jerk” when the car finally shifts, particularly on the lower gears. This can make driving uncomfortable and could become worse over time. 

• Causes: Typically, this problem stems from the transmission control module or software glitches, particularly when the 6-speed automatic transmission is used. Some internal transmission components, such as clutches or bands, may be damaged or worn. 

Transmission Fluid Leaks  

• Symptoms: Red fluid seepage under the car, especially around the front. This could be from a transmission fluid leak. With the transmission fluid being low, the car may not shift or even will not move.

• Causes: Transmission seals, gaskets, and broken transmission pans can all leak. The seals can get damaged, fluid leaks, and the transmission cannot operate properly. 

Failure To Engage Reverse Gear  

• Symptoms: Ford Escape owners have reported that sometimes the car will not reverse. This can be a real pain if you rely on the car in the cities where you’ll need to drive a lot.

• Causes: The transmission of solenoid or shift cables is often the reason for this. Inward transmission malfunctions could be to blame, too, if it is a high mileage vehicle.

Erratic Gear Shifting And Stalling  

• Symptoms: The transmission might move out of tune, or your engine might stop in corners. Usually, these symptoms worsen, and the vehicle is not going as smoothly.

• Causes: The problem with shifting is a faulty TCM or electronic throttle body. Other times, it might be caused by ageing internal components that should be replaced. 

Which Ford Escape Models Are Most Affected?

Transmission problems can arise with any vehicle make and model, but some model years of the Ford Escape were more common.

The 2008 to 2012 with the 6-speed automatic transmission and the 2014 to 2018 with the same configuration appear to have higher transmission reliability problems.

Ford has done some of this with software updates and design changes over the years, but the owners have stayed the course. 

Signs That Your Ford Escape Transmission Needs Attention

Prevent costly transmission repairs and save your vehicle’s life by finding transmission problems early on. Be on the lookout for these red flags: 

1. Phenomenal grinding, whining, or humming sounds. 
2. Strange smells like the burnt smell in the engine room. 
3. Dashboard warning lights like the check engine or transmission temperature lights, etc. 
4. Distortions to vehicle performance, shifting gears, misfiring shifts, or sloshing. 
5. Fluid leaks beneath the vehicle.
6. Hard time shifting into gears like reverse or drive. 

If you notice any of these symptoms, your car must be taken to a professional mechanic as soon as possible. 

How To Fix Ford Escape Transmission Problems?

You may try several solutions to fix your Ford Escape transmission problem if your Ford Escape transmission has gone bad. The list below includes possible repair options ranging from minor repairs to full-blown replacements: 

1. Check And Change Transmission Fluid  

Transmission fluid helps smooth shifts and keeps your vehicle from overheating. Low or dirty fluid will cause shifting problems. So, how to check and alter it:

• Find the transmission dipstick (if you have one), which will be around the back of the engine. 
• Make sure the fluid is dripping and clear. It must be pink or red. It may be dirty or black and might smell burnt. 
• Replace low fluid, the kind your owner’s manual recommends. 

If the fluid seems contaminated, get it flushed and changed by an expert. This will sometimes fix minor transmission issues. 

2. Update Transmission Software  

Ford has provided software updates to some Escape transmission problems. Such updates can tune the TCM to enhance shifting.

Call a Ford dealer or authorized service center to check for a software update on your vehicle. Dealers can search for service bulletins and recall regarding transmission software updates for your vehicle year and model. 

3. Check the Transmission Control Module (TCM)

TCM manages shifting and can fail, causing unpredictable shifting or failure to shift. 

A mechanic can perform a diagnosis to determine whether the TCM is the problem. 

When faulty, repair, or reprogramming, the TCM can cure shifting issues. This is typically cheaper than a transmission replacement. 

4. Reinstall or Replace Solenoids And Shift Parts 

Transmission solenoids regulate fluid flow and allow the transmission to shift gears efficiently. When the solenoids are failing, you might get stiff or delayed shifting. 

A mechanic will be able to test the solenoids and transmission parts. If solenoids are worn or damaged, removing them can correct issues like slipping, inconsistent shifting, or inability to trigger reverse. 

5. Address Transmission Leaks  

When transmission fluid begins to leak under your car, low fluid levels and shifting issues ensue. 

• Look at the transmission pan and seals to determine the leak location. Seals may fail over time if exposed to extreme temperatures. 
• An auto mechanic will repair damaged seals, gaskets, or transmission pan to stop the leak and halt further damage. 

6. Transmission Rebuild or Replacement (Severe Cases) 

If the transmission is internally corroded from high mileage or extreme wear, rebuilding or replacing may be the only option. 

• Rebuild Transmission: This involves reconditioning the old components in the transmission, such as clutches and bands. It’s generally cheaper than replacing it. 
• Transmission Repair: When the transmission can’t be repaired, it may need to be replaced or rebuilt. This is the most expensive option, but it will allow the car to function normally. 

These repairs can be costly, so get an estimate from a trusted mechanic. A transmission rebuild can range from $1,500 to $3,000. A replacement can cost more. 

7. Check For Warranties or Recalls  

You may get repairs for free if your Ford Escape is still under warranty or Ford issued a recall or service bulletin regarding transmission problems. 

You should contact your Ford dealership to determine whether or not your vehicle qualifies for warranty, extended warranty, or recall repairs. Ford has already recalled transmissions for certain Escape models. 

8. When To See a Professional  

While some of these procedures, such as checking and replacing transmission fluid, can be done at home, a trained mechanic needs to carry out the majority of transmission repairs. 

Transmission issues can become increasingly severe, so if you experience ongoing issues, diagnose and address them early. An expert can identify the cause, offer cost effective solutions, and keep your Ford Escape running smoothly. 

How To Avoid Future Transmission Issues?

It’s essential to perform preventative maintenance on your transmission. Here are a few tips:  

• Always inspect and change the transmission fluid as per your owner’s manual.
• Avoid accelerating. High acceleration and carrying too much weight will add extra load to the transmission.
• Get it checked frequently, particularly if your car is old or you notice any warning signs. 

FAQS on Ford Escape Transmission Problems

Final Thoughts  

Ford Escape is an, in most respects, reliable SUV, but its transmission problems have frustrated some. If you own a Ford Escape and are experiencing transmission trouble, calling a professional early on can help you avoid serious repairs and ensure your car lasts longer.

After learning about the common problems and their solutions, you can confidently choose maintenance and repairs for your Ford Escape.