My transmission will not drive but it will reverse?

2004 FORD EXPEDITION
313,000 MILES • 4.6L • V8 • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
Avatar
PATRICK ATKINS
  • MEMBER
  • 14 POSTS
What can be wrong with it I got to a store I went into the store. Then when I came out, I tried to leave, and my car reversed but it won't go in drive it went in drive, but it won't leave the store. What is the problem?
Apr 17, 2023 at 11:15 PM
Repair Safety Notice: This information is for general instructional purposes only. Vehicle repair can be dangerous. Verify all information, follow manufacturer service procedures, use proper tools and safety equipment, and consult a qualified repair shop when needed.
Advertisement
Avatar
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • CAR REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 110,190 POSTS
Hi,

There are several internal components that may have failed. By chance, is this the original transmission in the vehicle?

Next, when you place the transmission into drive, does the gear indicator show it is in drive? Is the check engine light on while the engine is running? If it is, I recommend scanning the computer for diagnostic trouble codes.

Here is a link that explains how it's done:

https://youtu.be/b2IJGfImVvw

Let me know if that is something you can have done.

Take care,

Joe
Apr 19, 2023 at 4:40 PM
Advertisement
Avatar
PATRICK ATKINS
  • MEMBER
  • 14 POSTS
No code. yes, I think it the original one yes it indicator it's in drive.
Apr 20, 2023 at 3:11 PM
Avatar
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • CAR REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 110,190 POSTS
Hi,

If there are no codes, chances are it isn't an electrical issue. It does have a lot of miles, so the problem could be internal.

Is the fluid clean and full? You could have a partially plugged transmission filter. If you haven't already, check the fluid level and condition.

Here is a link you may find helpful:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-and-add-transmission-fluid

When you check the fluid, it should be a pinkish-red color. If it is brown or black, it needs to be serviced. Also, take note if it has a burnt smell.

If that checks good, then we need to check the transmission line pressure. We can cross that bridge when we get to it if needed.

Let me know.

Joe
Apr 20, 2023 at 8:14 PM
Avatar
PATRICK ATKINS
  • MEMBER
  • 14 POSTS
Yes, the fluid smell burnt, and it was black and brown color. I just drained it.
Apr 20, 2023 at 9:29 PM
Avatar
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • CAR REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 110,190 POSTS
Hi,

If it is black/brown and smells burnt, the next thing to do would be the removal of the transmission pan to inspect if there are indications of metal shavings, excessive clutch material, and so on. Also, you will be able to see the filter for inspections as well.

I attached the directions below to access the filter. If you remove the pan and see debris, take a few pictures of it and upload them for me to see before cleaning.

Let me know what you find.

Joe

See pics below.
Apr 21, 2023 at 9:59 PM
Avatar
PATRICK ATKINS
  • MEMBER
  • 14 POSTS
This some.
Apr 22, 2023 at 1:30 AM
Avatar
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • CAR REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 110,190 POSTS
Hi,

By chance, do you have a pic of the pan itself especially where the magnet sits in it? Did you notice any metal shavings in the pan? Also, looking at your pic, I see places where it appears to be dark color dirt build up. Am I correct? If so, I have a feeling that is clutch material.

Let me know.

Joe
Apr 22, 2023 at 7:37 PM
Avatar
PATRICK ATKINS
  • MEMBER
  • 14 POSTS
It had no metal pieces it just like metal shavings.
Apr 22, 2023 at 7:51 PM
Avatar
PATRICK ATKINS
  • MEMBER
  • 14 POSTS
But it looks normal.
Apr 22, 2023 at 7:52 PM
Avatar
PATRICK ATKINS
  • MEMBER
  • 14 POSTS
It kind of look like this.
Apr 22, 2023 at 7:57 PM
Avatar
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • CAR REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 110,190 POSTS
Hi,

Is that from your vehicle? That is a mess. If that is clutch material, I feel it likely needs to be rebuilt.

Let me know.

Joe
Apr 22, 2023 at 8:39 PM
Avatar
PATRICK ATKINS
  • MEMBER
  • 14 POSTS
No, that is not my car.
Apr 23, 2023 at 6:55 AM
Avatar
PATRICK ATKINS
  • MEMBER
  • 14 POSTS
When I start my car it sounds like a little bad.
Apr 23, 2023 at 6:55 AM
Avatar
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • CAR REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 110,190 POSTS
Hi,

I'm glad to know that pic wasn't from your vehicle. LOL When you say something sounds bad when started, how would you best describe it? Also, is it loud enough for you to record and upload for me to hear?

Let me know.

Joe
Apr 23, 2023 at 6:42 PM
Avatar
PATRICK ATKINS
  • MEMBER
  • 14 POSTS
Here one vehicle I have three.
Apr 27, 2023 at 1:29 AM
Avatar
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • CAR REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 110,190 POSTS
Patrick,

I did hear the noise. It sounds like something has come apart internally. At this point, the transmission would need removed and taken apart for inspection.

Is that something you are comfortable doing?

Let me know.

Joe
Apr 27, 2023 at 6:31 PM
Avatar
PATRICK ATKINS
  • MEMBER
  • 14 POSTS
Yes.
Apr 30, 2023 at 3:16 PM
Avatar
PATRICK ATKINS
  • MEMBER
  • 14 POSTS
But the sound is not coming from the transmission it's coming from the engine area.
Apr 30, 2023 at 3:17 PM
Avatar
PATRICK ATKINS
  • MEMBER
  • 14 POSTS
But the sound is not coming from the transmission it's coming from the engine area in the vehicle. does the car sound good?
Apr 30, 2023 at 3:18 PM
Avatar
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • CAR REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 110,190 POSTS
Hi,

Take notice if the sound is louder at the rear of the engine when the transmission is bolted to the engine. Also, see if it is louder under the vehicle or above. You can even go as far as checking it between left and right.

Let me know.

Joe
Apr 30, 2023 at 6:41 PM
Avatar
PATRICK ATKINS
  • MEMBER
  • 14 POSTS
It louder in engine area.
May 17, 2023 at 8:13 AM
Avatar
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • CAR REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 110,190 POSTS
Hi,

It could be related to the torque converter which is right behind the engine in the transmission bell housing.

Don't laugh, but if you can, pick up an automotive stethoscope. Most parts stores have them for around five dollars. Use that to see if you can locate the source. Check the bell housing area to see if that is where it is loudest.

Let me know.

Joe
May 17, 2023 at 8:16 PM