Transmission will not stay in gear

2006 FORD ESCAPE
340,000 MILES • 3.0L • 6 CYL • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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SCOTT WHITE2
  • MEMBER
  • 4 POSTS
After been sitting and cold it will go in gear after cranking but only will go about 1,500 yards are so then it's like it's in neutral will not go in any gear, after it sits long enough to stay up cold it goes in gear and and repeats the same thing after about 1,500 feet.
Sep 27, 2020 at 3:07 AM
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KASEKENNY
  • Experienced Mechanic
  • 18,907 POSTS
We need to start with checking for codes.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/checking-a-service-engine-soon-or-check-engine-light-on-or-flashing

Once we know if there are codes we can go in a different direction.

Also, we need to check the fluid level and condition of the transmission. If it is not correct we need to drain and fill it. I attached the process. Let me know what happens with this and we can go from there. Thanks
Sep 27, 2020 at 3:13 AM
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SCOTT WHITE2
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It out of the blue started doing this, it will only go it drive are reverse when it's cold, only stays in gear for a minute are so. Once you let it cool for a while it will go in gear but just for a minute, after it disengage after a minute of being in gear it's like it's in neutral in every gear position.
Sep 30, 2020 at 5:44 AM (Merged)
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ASEMASTER6371
  • Experienced Mechanic
  • 52,796 POSTS
Good morning,

I would start by changing the fluid. If the fluid has broken down, it will not allow the pump to produce pressure.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-service-an-automatic-transmission

Beyond that, if the fluid is good, it is an internal failure and the transmission has to be replaced.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/automatic-transmission-problems

Roy

Transmission Fluid Drain and Refill

Material
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Draining
1. With the vehicle in NEUTRAL, position it on a hoist.


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2. NOTE: If an internal problem is suspected, drain the fluid through a paper filter. A small amount of metal or friction particles may be found from normal wear. If an excessive amount of metal or friction material is present the transaxle will need to be overhauled.

Remove the transaxle drain plug.

Refill


imageOpen In New TabZoom/Print


1. Using a small amount of thread sealant on the threads, install the transaxle drain plug.
Tighten to 25 Nm (18 ft. lbs.).
2. Fill the transaxle with clean automatic transmission fluid.
3. Start the engine and run through all the gears and check fluid level.
Sep 30, 2020 at 5:45 AM (Merged)
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