Transmission will not shift out of first gear unless warmed up?

2000 FORD TAURUS
110,000 MILES • 3.0L • 6 CYL • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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THOMAS QUALLITY
  • MEMBER
  • 5 POSTS
When i first take off the car won't shift out of first gear, at the same time the speedometer is also not working. Eventually it will shift out of first once the automatic door locks engage and the speedometer starts working again. Any advice?
Sep 25, 2023 at 3:43 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • Experienced Mechanic
  • 110,240 POSTS
Hi,

The idea that the speedometer isn't working when you experience this is the likely cause of the door locks and shift problem.

The vehicle speed sensor/ output shaft speed sensor is an electric sensor, but it is gear driven. Although it is difficult to access, you may want to consider inspecting it for wiring issues, corrosion at the connector, or anything that appears damaged.

I attached the directions below for replacing it. These directions can be used to simply access it for inspection. However, if you go to the trouble of inspecting it, you may want to consider replacing it, so you don't have to remove things again.

Take a look and let me know if you are comfortable performing the procedure. Additionally, let me know if you have scanned the system for diagnostic trouble codes.

Let me know.

Joe

See pics below.
Sep 26, 2023 at 11:53 AM
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