Transmission not shifting out of second gear?

NEILIO7

MEMBER
1998 FORD ESCORT
2.0L
4 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
158,000 MILES

Transmission runs smoothly, but around 3,500 to 4,000 RPMs it will not shift out of second gear into third gear.

Friday, January 27th, 2023 AT 7:12 AM

5 Replies

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,747 POSTS

Hi,

Have you checked the transmission fluid level and condition? If not, start there.

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

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

If that is good, does the check engine light remain on while the engine is running? Have you had the computer scanned? If so, were any diagnostic trouble codes found?

Let me know. Also, let me know if this happened all at once and if the shifter feels like it is fully engaged in drive and isn't in second gear.

Take care,

joe

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Friday, January 27th, 2023 AT 7:26 PM

NEILIO7

MEMBER
2 POSTS

Fluid is fine. Scanned the ECM only got codes for low coolant and 02 sensor (which are not related to this problem) I read on another Ford forum that a specific scanner was needed. (Can't recall the name of it) I was hoping that it was a simple vacuum hose issue or a speed sensor.
Thanks.

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Sunday, January 29th, 2023 AT 11:03 AM

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,747 POSTS

By chance, are you referring to a scan tool that can read the CAN-BUS? Take a look through this link that explains how to scan using one and let me know if that is what you are referring to:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/can-scan-controller-area-network-easy

Let me know.

Joe

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Sunday, January 29th, 2023 AT 3:06 PM

NEILIO7

MEMBER
2 POSTS

No, that is not the scanner I was referring to, even though that is a very nice setup in the video that you shared. I borrowed a scanner from an AutoZone store. The transmission that is in the car now is a used one. With approximately 158,000 miles on it. Are there any other details you can think of that would help narrow down the potential problem? Thanks, I wish I had more experience to give you the right information. Thanks again.

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Sunday, January 29th, 2023 AT 4:27 PM

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,747 POSTS

Hi,

Without codes, it will become a guessing game. In this case, I would likely check line pressure next to see if it is low specifically when in reverse. Reverse requires the highest amount of pressure to engage.

I attached the directions below. You will need a transmission pressure tester, but you should be able to get one at a parts store.

Take a look and let me know your thoughts.

Let me know.

Take care,

Joe

See pics below.

Images (Click to make bigger)