I've been having issues with our 2016 Explorer (15k miles on it). At first it was sporadically hard-shifting into reverse. Dealer replaced some parts and after bringing it back again for the same thing said they can't duplicate it and to bring it back when it's more prevalent.

Now, it's slipping in and out of gear during acceleration pretty consistently.

Video 1

Video 2

I'm taking it to the dealer in the morning. Anyone seen anything like this before?

I hope I don't have to argue about getting a new transmission as I'm certain there's got to be metal flakes in there by now...

Wow, that's nasty. Something is going to break soon I'd guess. Take it to a different dealer.

Jim

If it is actually slipping, rather than dropping in and out, it is probably a clutch pack or a band.(I am not familiar with that particular trans). If it is dropping out it could be electronic or in the valve body. Slipping would require a rebuild or a new trans. If they can't help talk to a rep.

Jim

If it's still in warranty I would get with Ford Corp and get a new transmission. Hell with that patching it

What you describe, and listening to the videos makes me think that the fluid level is low. Worse case would be the wrong type of ATF was used when the dealer replaced parts. I believe the Explorer uses the MERCON LV ATF, and not the old rated MERCON V.

Make sure that it gets written up with the same description of the actual symptom each time, not someones opinion tof the cause.
You want to be able to pressure them with the lemon law and I think that's 24,000 miles or 24 months in GA.
As others said, call the Ford zone service rep. if the dealer can't or won't fix it properly.

It is still under warranty.

They didn't replace anything internally last time, it was some solenoid or some such thing. I don't believe they opened it up. But I will ask. It's never been serviced to my knowledge.

I will ask them to inspect the fluid for metal shavings.

It's a used vehicle, no lemon law.

You said you listened to the video... Could you see the video?

I saw both videos, and #2 gave the most information for me. When shifting into drive, is there a hesitation, and possible a loud clunk sound? Does the slippage only happen when shifting from 1st to second gear, or do you get that going up thru the gears? In the video it looks like that happens around 25mph. You should be able to check the fluid level yourself. Follow the directions according to the owners manual.

If it's getting progressively worse, they should be able to duplicate. If not, take the technician for a drive yourself.

It only does it after shifting into 2nd or 3rd. So far. Starting in first is no issue. It will hardshift when you put it in reverse. Sometimes it's a clunk other times you have to get the rpms up and it will hardshift like the video. Have not noticed a clunk putting it into drive.

Btw this is in automatic. I've not tried sport mode or manual shifting

quote:

It's a used vehicle, no lemon law.

You still have 3yr/36,0000 warranty even if it was sold 27 times. 2016 was probably put in service in 2015, I'd check original sale date and make sure it is resolved prior to three year anniversary.

looks like what happened on my first car when a clutch plate broke from 2nd to 3rd gear. But that was an old, crappy car, and not a new one like yours. the similarity still makes me think it's a trans issue. I'm curious, nonetheless.