Transmission temperature gauge drops quickly down causing the check gauge light to come on and overdrive light to flash

Tiny
BFAGE
  • MEMBER
  • 2004 FORD F-250
  • 5.4L
  • V8
  • 4WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 93,000 MILES
The gauge then goes back up sometimes quickly sometimes gradually. It also causes the overdrive off light to flash on the shift lever. The vehicle drives fine shifting through gears normally, no slipping or late shifting. This event happens when driving and while sitting idling. The transmission fluid is in the normal range. Does not smell burnt. There are no fluid leaks. The fluid was changed approximately 20,000 miles ago.
Wednesday, February 19th, 2014 AT 6:25 PM

4 Replies

Tiny
CADIEMAN
  • MECHANIC
  • 3,544 POSTS
Do you mean transmission pressure gauge goes low?
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Wednesday, February 19th, 2014 AT 8:27 PM
Tiny
BFAGE
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
No not pressure. Ford F250 super duty has a transmission temperature gauge. Monitors the temperature of the transmission fluid.
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Wednesday, February 19th, 2014 AT 8:43 PM
Tiny
CADIEMAN
  • MECHANIC
  • 3,544 POSTS
First thing you will need to do is to replace the temperature sensor it is not reading properly.
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Wednesday, February 19th, 2014 AT 10:08 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,747 POSTS
Hi,

Based on your description, it sounds like a bad connection, but other things can cause the problem such as the sensor. However, I will tell you, this is not an uncommon issue. In most cases, it is caused by a loose connection on the wiring harness going to the transmission.

What I have done is provide a diagnostic flow charts. What I suggest is to start at number 1 and work your way through. In addition to the flow charts are pics that show pin layouts for the connectors relevant to the testing.

If you look at the last two pics, I broke out the specific 12 pin connector which includes power and ground for the temp sensor.

_________________________

Here are a few links you may find helpful when testing:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-use-a-test-light-circuit-tester

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-use-a-voltmeter

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-wiring

_______________________

Let me know if this helps or if you have other questions. Also, if you have a chance, let me know what you find.

Take care,
Joe
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Friday, April 3rd, 2020 AT 7:43 PM

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