2005 Intermittent transmission issues

[meow57]

I’m having weird intermittent transmission issues. A couple of weeks ago my 2005 explorer limited 4wd wouldn’t go into drive or reverse on my way to work. So I drove in 3rd all the way there with no problem. But when heading home the transmission performed normally. Since then I’ve had times where it slipped out of drive while driving. Very inconvenient when getting on a freeway.

I understand there’s a solenoid issue with theses transmissions. Does this sound like this may be a potential problem here? And any idea how much the repair would be?

My regular mechanic had never heard of this issue and had no idea where the solenoid is located, so he’s not the right person to handle it. He said he’d recently had to get a rebuilt transmission for another customer, same model, and it ended up close to $5k. Definitely not the right way to go! Any help you can give me would be great! Thanks.

 

[transman304]

Fluid level 1st. Is the OD light flashing

 

[meow57]

Fluid level 1st. Is the OD light flashing

Fluid level is good. No flashing light.

 

[transman304]

A failed solenoid pack usually will set a trouble code. I would suspect a sticking pump control valve. Very common problem on this unit. Be hard to guess without a line pressure reading. Maybe @JK080 will have input on this. Good luck
Brad

 

[JK080]

Usually the solenoid block won't cause a no engagement problem and with no trouble codes I would look for something else. If it ever quits for good try unplugging the transmission to know for sure its not electrical.
The pump valve can do this but you won't have manual anything if its stuck open. No overdrive engagements but engages in drive and no reverse makes me think input sprag.
Either way this transmission will have to come out and might as well rebuild it at this point. 5K is a bit high, you should be able to find a shop to build it right around 2.5 to 3k with a decent warranty.