od light flashes on and off

[draper97]

what is the first thing i need to check?
Is this a major problem?
Does it mean the tranny is going bad?

It is a 2001 Explorer Sport 4x4 with 124000 miles on it.
I just bought it for $2800.00

 

[rhauf]

OD light flashing means transmission error.. could be serious, could be nothing.

first, check the trans fluid level.. (check while running, warm, in park) be sure it's filled up all the way.

second, disconnect the battery for a few minutes to reset the EEC (or use a tool to reset it if you have one) this will make the light go off...

after you've done that, drive it around and see if it comes back on.. also, on this "test drive" try to notice if it slips between gears, clunks into gears hard, delayed shift, etc.
(slipping between gears is where the RPM's actually increase after the gear shift has initiated)

BTW what engine do you have?

 

[BrooklynBay]

Welcome to this forum! Find out what the code numbers are before you disconnect the battery. The code number will help identify what the issue is.

 

[draper97]

checked fluid level is full, but it is brownish like it is burnt
i think it is slipping a little after second gear engages. it revs up rpm's
i am going to go have code checked, and probably start with changing the fluid
first.

4.0L engine

 

[BrooklynBay]

Replace the filter along with the fluid. Only use Mercon V.

 

[draper97]

no auto stores can get code. took it to best one tire to have it flushed, and they said they can't do it because it is slipping.

 

[draper97]

getting used tranny for salvage yard it has 94000 miles on it. they are giving a 1 year warranty( replace tranny and pay for labor). for $500.00 plus tax minus core of $50.00
and the people i bought it from is going to pay for half. i will save on labor by installing it myself