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2002 Ford Focus LX Base 4dr Sedan

2002 Ford Focus
Trim Info:
Front Wheel Drive, 4 Door Sedan, Compact
28 mpg city / 36 mpg hwy
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January 7, 2013, 1:59 pm

Ammar K
 

Question: Tranmission jolts when shifts from gear 1 to gear 2.


I have a ford focus 2002 SE Wagon Automatic Transmission with 72K miles on it. The car has some jerking problem. It happens when car becomes warm after running which results in jolt when it shifts from gear 1 to gear 2. Also when it is warm it takes some time to get out of gear 1 and shifts to 2. The transmission fluid is clean and have no burning smell. The shifting is normal when the car is cold and also shifts smoothly when it goes from 2nd to 3rd and 3rd to 4th. Only problem is between gear 1 and gear 2.
I will be really thankful if you can give me your advice on that.
Thanks.


January 12, 2013, 9:36 am

Ron W
Expert Mechanic

Sounds like a shift solenoid (actuator) may be failing when the transmission warms up.

But lots of things can cause abnormal shifting. You'll have to have a transmission shop diagnose whether it's in the transmission itself, or if the transmission is reacting to a sensor giving it poor data.


1/1 users found this helpful.

January 12, 2013, 1:36 pm

Ammar K
 

It just came up in my mind if it might be transmission filter because I have never got it changed. Do u think that might be a reason too?
I have to go 200 miles some where do u think it would be safe to do that. I will get it serviced as soon i get back.


0/0 users found this helpful.

January 13, 2013, 11:04 am

Ron W
Expert Mechanic

The filter could cause abnormal shifting if it was partially clogged.

I don't think it would cause this type of issue, but if it has never been done, it's a good (and inexpensive) place to start.

I really can't tell you if it is safe to drive without looking at it,


1/1 users found this helpful.

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