Transmission not shifting properly

Tiny
BBURRIS
  • MEMBER
  • 1998 FORD CONTOUR
  • 2.0L
  • 4 CYL
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 214,817 MILES
My car is not shifting like it should. It doesn't shift at all!
Sunday, April 28th, 2019 AT 6:54 PM

1 Reply

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,700 POSTS
Welcome to 2CarPros.

Have you checked the transmission fluid. Also, did it happen all at once? Finally, are there any sounds or vibrations when you place it in gear?

Here are the directions for checking transmission fluid. Do this and pay attention to the color of the fluid. It should be a reddish color. Let me know what you find. Also, the attached pic correlates with the directions for checking.

_________________________________________
It is preferable to check the transmission fluid level at normal operating temperature after approximately 20 miles (32 km) of driving. However, if necessary, the fluid level can be checked without having to drive 20 miles (32 km) to obtain normal operating temperature if the outside temperature is above 10° C (50° F).

With the vehicle on a level surface, start the engine and move the transaxle range selector lever through all of the gear ranges, allowing sufficient time for each position to engage. Securely engage the transaxle range selector lever in the PARK position, fully set the parking brake, and leave the engine running.

Wipe off the fluid level indicator cap, pull the fluid level indicator out and wipe clean. Put the fluid level indicator back into the filler tube and make sure it is seated properly. Pull out the fluid level indicator and read the fluid level.

When checking fluid at normal operating temperature, the fluid level should be within the crosshatched area on the fluid level indicator. When the vehicle has not been driven, and the outside temperature is above 10° C (50° F), the fluid level should be between the hole and the lower edge of the crosshatched area on the fluid level indicator.

Picture 1

HIGH OR LOW FLUID LEVEL
A fluid level that is too high may cause the fluid to become aerated due to the churning action of the rotating parts of the transaxle. Aerated fluid will cause erratic line pressure, which may result in harsh/soft shifts or engagements, damage to the clutch material, improper torque converter operation, and fluid coming out of the vent. If fluid level is too high, excess fluid must be removed.

A fluid level that is too low will affect transaxle operation, such as: slipping, slow engagements, and damage to internal hardware. Low levels may also indicate that a leak is present in the fluid system. If fluid level was low, add fluid.

ADDING FLUID

CAUTION: Use of any fluid other than specified could result in transaxle malfunction or failure. If you need to add fluid, first check for the correct fluid type (MERCON) V stamped on the fluid indicator. Before adding any fluid, be sure that the correct type will be used. Add fluid in 0.25L (1/2 pint) increments through the filler tube to bring the level to the correct area on the dipstick. If an overfill occurs, excess fluid must be removed. MERCON(R) automatic Transmission Fluid is being replaced by MERCON(R) V as a service fluid, as per TSB 06-14-4.

____________________________________________

Also, I realize you can't drive it 20 miles, so just make sure the engine temperature is up to operating temp. Additionally, let me know if the check engine light is on.

Take care,
Joe
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Sunday, April 28th, 2019 AT 7:59 PM

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