Transmission Fault Service Now Ford Escape & Focus: [Guide]

transmission fault service now

The transmission systems play an essential role in vehicle operations, such as transferring the power from the engine to the wheels. Problems with that system can cause severe issues, resulting in poor vehicle performance.

You might encounter the “Transmission Fault Service Now” message if you’re a Ford Focus or Escape owner. It is one of the most critical transmission warnings that can be displayed on the dashboard for some critical reasons. This article comprehensively covers this issue, its causes, potential risks, and troubleshooting methods to fix it.

It is crucial to properly understand the root cause of the issue before applying the fixing steps. However, having vast knowledge about transmission faults can help take safe and beneficial steps to understand the underlying problem.

What Is A Transmission System?

The transmission system in a vehicle is responsible for the power transfer process from the engine to the wheels, offering the vehicle the ability to move. The transmission system uses a series of gears to adjust the vehicle’s speed and torque for optimal performance.

Types Of Transmission

There are many types of vehicle transmissions; these are:

  • Manual transmission
  • Automatic transmission
  • Continuously Variable Transmission
  • Semi-Automatic transmission
  • Dual-Clutch transmission

So, each of the following transmissions has its unique advantages, but all are prone to wear and tear, leading to potential malfunctions

Common Transmission Issues

Some of the most common transmission problems are as follows:

  1. Slipping gears
  2. Transmission fluid leaks
  3. Grinding noises
  4. Delayed or erratic shifting
  5. Check engine light

The transmission fault service now Ford Escape is a warning message displayed on a car instrument panel when the vehicle’s computing system detects a malfunction or related problem in the transmission system. This warning light typically shows that your vehicle needs an urgent service to avoid further damage or transmission failure.

The driver faces this warning on the dashboard when the vehicle’s transmission control module (TCM) has detected an issue that could negatively impact the vehicle’s driving. Most of the time, the issue could be related to mechanical, electrical, or hydraulic problems within the transmission. 

Common Causes

Various issues can trigger the warning “Transmission Fault Service Now.” Some of the most common ones one’s include:

  1. Worn-out or damaged parts
  2. Transmission solenoid failures
  3. Overheating transmission system
  4. Low or contaminated transmission fluid
  5. Faulty sensors or electrical components

You may experience several signs when the transmission fault service warning comes to your vehicle. These symptoms signal deeper problems.

Warning Lights

The check engine light or transmission warning light may illuminate the dashboard; these are two major indicators that tell early that there’s something wrong with the transmission or powertrain system.

Abnormal Sounds And Smells

You may notice the grinding or whining noises while shifting gears and the burning smell that indicates the overheating of transmission fluid. The clunking or knocking sounds are also two signs that indicate faulty transmission.

Performance Problems

Different performance issues, such as slipping gears, delayed gear engagement, and inconsistent acceleration, indicate your vehicle’s transmission is faulty.

The transmission issues can occur due to various causes, each of which can vary in severity. Identifying these issues and solving them promptly can prevent vehicles from transmission failure or costly repairs. However, some of the most frequent causes of transmission faults are:

Worn clutch componentsTransmission fluid leaks
Faulty transmission solenoidsWorn gaskets and seals
OverheatingTorque converter issues
Low or contaminated transmission fluidValve body issues
Electronic Control Module (ECM) or Transmission Control Module (TCM) failuresImproper maintenance
Mechanical wear and tearBlocked transmission filters
Faulty sensorsSoftware issues

Different kinds of procedures can be adopted for diagnosing transmission faults that can, including the use of code scanners, advanced diagnostic tools, and detailed inspections.

Using OBD-II Scanners

An OBD-II scanner can be the best option for reading error codes from modern vehicles’ electronic control units (ECU). These codes provide more detailed and precise diagnoses of the issue.

Professional Diagnostic Tools

In some cases, the problem will require an advanced diagnostic tool to perform a detailed task on transmission. The mechanic will check for software glitches, fluid inspection, or mechanical checks.

Common transmission-related error codes

Here are some common error codes that are related to the transmission:

  • P0700: Indicates the general transmission fault
  • P0730: Indicates the incorrect gear ratio
  • P0740: Use for torque converter clutch issue
  • P0770: Refers to the shift solenoid problem

To fix the transmission problems, methods include:

DIY Fixes VS Professional Repairs

Some minor transmission faults can be addressed at home, while other complex tasks require professional knowledge and tools. So, the DIY fixes that you can perform might include:

  • Inspection of the transmission fluid levels.
  • Replacing or topping off transmission fluid.
  • Reset the TCM

Fluid Changes

Replacing the transmission fluid is one of the first steps to address minor issues. Fluid flushes regularly will also prevent disease from building up in the transmission, reducing the risk of critical damage.

Replacing Transmission Parts

The transmission parts like clutch plates and solenoids may need replacing depending on the fault intensity. The mechanic will inspect all other affected transmission parts to check if the replacement is necessary.

Average Costs For Common Repairs

The total cost of transmission repairs can vary depending on the issue’s severity and the replacement parts prices. Moreover, the vehicle’s make and model and the transmission type (automatic, manual, CVT) also can affect the cost. However, average costs include the following:

RepairCosts
Fluid flushes or changes$100 to $250
Solenoid replacements$150 to $400
Full transmission rebuilds$1,800 to $3,500
Transmission replacement$3,000 to $7,000

Also Check:

Why Is My Car Shaking When Idle? Causes & Solutions [Guide]
Mitsubishi Outlander Years To Avoid [Detailed Guide 2024]

The detailed table shows the car brands with the most reported transmission fault service issues and an estimated percentage of registered complaints based on the recorded data and various sources.

Car BrandReported Transmission Fault Issues (%)Car BrandReported Transmission Fault Issues (%)
Ford15%Volkswagen6%
Chevrolet12%Toyota5%
Nissan10%Hyundai4%
Jeep9%Mercedes-Benz4%
Honda8%Mazda3%
Dodge7%Subaru3%
BMW6%

The mentioned percentages are based on complaints about transmission for certain models, especially those with known issues, such as Ford’s PowerShift and Nissan’s CVT. However, remember that the above reports vary depending on the vehicle’s model year and regional conditions.

Whether it’s a Ford or Honda, regular maintenance is a crucial key factor in maintaining the proper health and longevity of the vehicle. It ensures that your vehicle is in top condition and you’re safe on the road. If we conclude this whole article, we come up with that decision: transmission faults are serious issues that can cause further damage if not addressed promptly. 

The warning message “Transmission Fault Service Now Ford Focus” is a quick, urgent reminder to inform drivers that it’s time for immediate action. It doesn’t matter if it’s a fluid issue, an electronic glitch, or a mechanical problem; repairing transmission issues early can save you time and money and provide safety from further damage.

Can I drive with a transmission fault service now?

The driver always wonders if driving with a faulty transmission is okay. Unfortunately, it’s unsafe, and driving while having transmission issues on your vehicle is not recommended because this can lead to further damage or total transmission failure.

How Long Does It Take To Fix a Transmission Fault?

Most repairs are fairly quick while flushing the fluid and recalibration can take a day. Replacement of the shift solenoids can take a day or two. However, a fully rebuilt transmission is time-consuming and typically takes three to four days.

Martin Lee is an ASE-certified mechanic and contributing author at SincereMechanic. He uses his expertise to create captivating articles that align with our content strategy. Using his deep automobile knowledge, he does in-depth research, puts expertise into articles, and makes them very informative. That information ensures our readers receive many valuable insights about the Vehicles.