2004 Tranny issue?

[mikeinri]

Hey guys,

Not sure where to begin to search for this one, hard to describe...

Bought a 2004 XLT last week. It's 4.0L, auto tranny (1-2-3-D, with O/D on/off on shift lever), about 55,000 miles. I think it's a 5 speed auto tranny?

Anyway, it runs great, except when slowing to a near stop in traffic, or when slowing to make a turn. The slowing is OK, it's the going again that's the problem. I step on the gas, and nothing happens for a few seconds, then the truck lurches forward. It doesn't seem like an engine issue (it's not sputtering or stalling).

Does this sound like a tranny issue? Is there are common problem on this vintage tranny? I just came away from a 1994 A4LD that lasted over 277,000 miles, I'd like to think this 2004 is a step up!

Mike

 

[mikeinri]

Transmission code on the door sticker says "V" but in the owner's manual, that's not listed as an option...

Mike

 

[BrooklynBay]

It might be the throttle by wire programming.

 

[mikeinri]

"It might be the throttle by wire programming."

Please forgive me, because I'm coming from a lowly 1994...

Is that something that the computer teaches itself as you drive, or do I need to bring it in for an adjustment?

The reason I ask is, the truck failed emissions because the "computer wasn't ready." I think it sat with a dead battery (someone left a light on) on the dealer lot. The inspection report says to drive 100 miles and get it re-tested.

Could that have also caused this lurching issue?

Mike

 

[BrooklynBay]

It's possible that the computer is still in the process of learning a new pattern, but I suspect that it might be the throttle by wire system. This system replaces the conventional throttle cable, and uses sensor inputs along with an actuator to vary acceleration.

 

[mikeinri]

OK, call me crazy. I did a search on this site, found that there was a TSB for 2006, but this is a 2004 (different generation Explorer). Are the throttle controls the same, and should I expect to need an adjustment or repair from the dealer?

Mike

 

[BrooklynBay]

This is # 13 in my list of useful threads: Dead Link Removed. See if there is a TSB in those links for your model year.

 

[Yankee]

I found a tsb for my x about my neutral out problem and my creakey front end. Does a TSB mean they have to fix it?I know it's just a bulletin but is it to notify the dealers of what problems to fix if someone brings their truck in and it doing something on the list?