Does my transmission need rebuilt?

MOGWOLF

MEMBER
2003 FORD WINDSTAR
64,000 MILES

The van was driven to a doctor appointment last week and when we came out, started the van and shifted into drive, nothing happened. This holds true for every gear including reverse. It is as though the vehicle only has park and neutral. I replaced the Range Sensor (also found it called the Neutral Safety Switch in the parts catalog). This didn't fix the problem. I'm wondering if a fluid flush and change would fix it or if I am committed to rebuild.

5 Replies

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,755 POSTS

If the trans was fine one munute and not the next, chances are it doesn't need rebuilt. It could be related to a sensor, low trans fluid. As far as the flush, if the trans fluid is clean and full, that won't change anything. If the check engine light has come on, have the computer scanned to identify possible transmission trouble codes. Let me know what you find.

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Tuesday, October 4th, 2011 AT 9:19 PM

MOGWOLF

MEMBER
3 POSTS

Thanks for the quick reply. Unfortunately there is no trouble light and no code.

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Tuesday, October 4th, 2011 AT 9:25 PM

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,755 POSTS

The only mechanical items that I can think of are the torque converter or the front pump. You need to remove one of the cooling lines at the radiator to see if the trans is still pumping fluid. If it isn't, one of those items are bad. Please remember, the fluid will shoot out if it is working. Wear old cloths, have eye protection. And capture the fluid in something like an old milk jug. If the pressure is very low or none, have the two items I mentioned checked.

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Tuesday, October 4th, 2011 AT 9:28 PM

MOGWOLF