Howdy fellow Explorers!

[FUSCH]

Hi! I have a 2004 Explorer XLT 4x4 that I have owned for almost 3 years and 36,000 miles (end of warranty). Right now my truck is in shop getting what will most likely be the last of its warranty repairs (clock spring changed for second time and both diffs getting resealed due to leaks). I like my truck but am considering selling it to get an F150, which I used to have before the Explorer.

I found this forum looking for advice and others' experience with the 5R55E tranny problems. I had my ATF fluid swapped out back in 2005 at 8800 miles via Ford's customer satisfaction letter, but later on the harsh reverse engagements from park and drive returned and I had the solenoid replaced at 17,900 miles. I have read a lot about tranny failures on 04 X's and am worried it will happen eventually to me. Specifically, I have heard the transmissions have solenoid issues and 2nd and 5th gear issues caused by the OD band servo getting stuck in the case. My options are to get rid of it while it is still working or get an extended warranty.

Where can I find info about these tranny issues on this site? What are people's experience with Ford ESP and other extended warranties? Are there any other good Ford Explorer websites that I should check out?

Thanks! And nice to be here!

 

[BrooklynBay]

Welcome to this forum! The shift flare issue is common. Install a boost valve with O rings, and end plugs with O rings on the valve body. A valve body shift kit would be a good idea too. The use of improper fluid could cause slippage too.

 

[Dopler174]

Are there any other good Ford Explorer websites that I should check out?

Nope!

There is a section just for your truck here and there is a section just for transmissions, tranfer cases, and differentials. Welcome to Explorer Forum and happy posting!

 

[SoBeLover]

Welcome to the best Explorer forum on the Internet!