7k miles and the transmission is much smoother

[dco43054]

So for the first couple thousand miles, when the transmission would downshift for lane changes, etc., you could really feel it kick down. Felt kind of jerky.

Now, with 5 months and 7k miles on the clock, it's much smoother.

The interesting part is that even with 4WD, it does exhibit torque steer. I've had front wheel drive cars before, so it's not a surprise it is doing this. After the first time I just expect it and correct if needed.

 

[peterk9]

So for the first couple thousand miles, when the transmission would downshift for lane changes, etc., you could really feel it kick down. Felt kind of jerky.
Now, with 5 months and 7k miles on the clock, it's much smoother.

I wonder if the first thousand miles was part of the 'learning' process that the transmission went through. The book does say that it takes a while for it to 'learn' how you drive regarding shift points etc. A 1000 miles does seem like a long time though.

Peter

 

[IZwack]

Thats because the friction materials have worn down . Either that or the pump's pressure has decreased.

 

[FordService]

...Now, with 5 months and 7k miles on the clock, it's much smoother...

It’s great that you’re having smooth shifts, dco43054. I hope you’re enjoying your Explorer.

...The book does say that it takes a while for it to 'learn' how you drive regarding shift points etc...

You’re right, peterk9. The following can be found on page 284 in the 2011 Explorer Owner Guide 4th Printing:

“Automatic transmission adaptive learning
Your transmission is equipped with an adaptive learning strategy found in the vehicle computer. This feature is designed to increase durability and provide consistent shift feel over the life of the vehicle. A new vehicle or transmission may have firm and/or soft shifts. This operation is considered normal and will not affect function or durability of the transmission. Over time, the adaptive learning process will fully update transmission operation. Additionally, whenever the battery is disconnected or a new battery installed, the strategy must be relearned.”

If you don’t have a digital copy of your Owner Guide, you can download one for free by going to the URL: http://Owner.Ford.com/servlet/ContentServer?pagename=Owner/Page/OwnerGuidePage and selecting your vehicle from the drop down boxes.

Cory

 

[Fredridge]

hmm.... I bought a demo with 6k on it and have only put another 600 miles on it since I have had it, but had a bad trans thing a couple weeks ago.

I was driving home on the street, maybe about 20-25mph and all of a sudden the trans clunked hard into gear with a really bad sound.

I am a little worried, but hasn't happened again, yet. if it happens again I am taking it in.

 

[FordService]

...I am a little worried, but hasn't happened again, yet. if it happens again I am taking it in.

Fredridge,

I agree that taking it in is the best way to look into that. I want to make sure you’re happy with your Explorer, so please PM me with your VIN, contact information, dealer name/state, and approximate mileage. I’ll escalate your concern to the Customer Service Manager in your region.

Cory