Q: Transmission can’t shift, thinks it needs to be replaced

asked by on November 02, 2015

The transmission in my 2007 Ford Explorer failed catastrophically at 115,000 miles. I was driving normally when the transmission started making ugly noises. By the time I was able to pull over, I could barely even shift into park. I could tell that the automatic transmission was damaged. I couldn’t shift back into drive, but I would not have been able to drive the car home anyway. I had my car towed and the transmission was replaced. What will help extend the life of this one? I can't afford another service like that!

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

Car doesn't go into gear.
This problem is not a common problem on these vehicles and the problem may be a major transmission pan leak and fluid got too low to engage the transmission. If the linkage is disconnected from a broken shift cable would...
How do I reactivate the audio system?
When your vehicle has been disconnected from its power Source (for instance when the battery dies or is replaced), then the audio system will need to be reactivated. Here’s how to reactivate the system: 1. Turn the ignition to On....
How do I turn on the fog lights?
The fog lights provide extra visibility in foggy weather conditions. To use the fog lights, first turn on the headlights. Then rotate the fog light band (located on the turn signal lever) to the on position. Tips When the high...
Rattling noise and wont go in gear
If you can put the transmission in any gear with the engine off easily but cannot get it in any gear when you start the car with the clutch in, then you have a clutch system problem. You will have...
When I start my truck it's idling high and when I'm driving the rpm fluctuate up and down and the transmission doesn't want to
Hello. It sounds like you may have a vacuum leak (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/is-it-safe-to-drive-with-a-vacuum-leak). This engine is notorious for vacuum leaks from a bad intake manifold gasket (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/intake-manifold-gaskets-replacement). This is very common. It can also be from the MAP sensor (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/manifold-absolute-pressure-sensor-map-sensor-replacement) or a...
My front brake calipers are sticking and not releasing
Lift up the front wheels to where they are off the ground. Remove the wheels and tires from the vehicle on the front. Remove the slider bolts one at a time and clean them. Apply Never Seize to the sliding...
How do I find top dead center using the teeth on the harmonic balancer?
Hi there. The following steps are to check for top dead center on your engine. Remove the left valve cover on the engine rotate the crankshaft until the key way is facing up Check the camshaft on the left that...
My Audi a4 1.8t keeps vibrating at higher speed what could be the issue
Among common possibilities for degraded acceleration are throttle body faults (electronic throttle controls, mass airflow sensor, torn air intake hose), worn out spark plugs, faulty fuel pump or restricted fuel system, and large vacuum leaks (including EGR malfunctions, PCV system,...
I have a 2013 Malibu LT And was trying to get my upper oill pan replaced
Hi Khalia. Thanks for contacting us tonight. This is a service that our mobile mechanics in your area might be able to complete for you. To request an estimate and to schedule an appointment, simply click this link and enter...

Related articles

How Can I Tell If My Clutch Is Slipping?
For some drivers, shifting a manual transmission is second nature. Others prefer to rely on automatic transmissions. Drivers of automatic vehicles don’t have...
The Best Used Cars to Buy for Towing Light Loads
Towing Towing is tricky business and depending on the weight you’re dealing with, it really determines what vehicle is best for you. If it’s light loads you’re looking at towing, we’ve put together a list of the top five cars...
How Long Does a Horn Switch Last?
With With all of the danger on the roadways, finding a way to keep yourself and your car safe should be a concern. A car has a variety of different mechanisms that are built into it that will allow for...