Questions and Answers

Ford Taurus Harsh Slow Speed 1-2 Shift Q. Hi Vincent: I was reading the information on your web site on transmission problems. I have a 1999 Ford Taurus SE. I had to replace the engine as my careless son did not put oil and the engine froze, anyway a 2000 engine was installed. I put 20,000 kilometers on the engine with no problems. I now have a transmission problem.

After reading your article where you stated that the engine must be running properly makes me wonder. I took my car to a "Mr. Transmission" here are the details in short version:

1. Transmission had a leak and a harsh shift from 1-2 in slow traffic. The leak was fixed but the car still has a harsh shift.
2. Mr. Transmission replaced the transmission along with a few other things. It ran well for two days and now the same problem is back.

The car works superbly on highways, I only have the problem when I am in extremely slow traffic. My husband wants to sell but I can't afford to buy another car whether it's second hand or new. My car works very well, I like it, it gives me good gas mileage in total I love it. Can you please help me?

Appreciate your help.
Thanks,
Kathleen

A. A harsh shift in one gear indicates an internal transmission problem or a problem with a shift solenoid. But since the transmission was replaced, I would assume that it came with new shift solenoids. If it was just rebuilt, then it is still possible you have a bad 1-2 shift solenoid.

Also, be sure they used the correct Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF). Starting in 1998, all Taurus and Sable vehicles require Mercon(R) V transmission fluid. 1998 Windstar vehicles built before 9/9/1997 require Mercon(R), Windstar vehicles built on 9/9/1997 and beyond use the Mercon(R) V transmission fluid.

The fluids are NOT interchangeable. The use of incorrect ATF may cause internal transaxle damage to friction material.

Here are some of the other possibilities...