I've been reading up about problems with the 5r55w in newer Explorers and noticed it is the transmission being used on the new Mustangs. I know I could just go down to the dealer, but I may be too tempted if I did.... I've been thinking about a GT convertible with an auto.

Basically, there were 2 problems. The first was a lack of a dipstick and the notion that the fluid would last forever, which most likely leads to problem #2: the solenoid pack goes bad and the tranny stops shifting properly. This usually happens between 30k and 50k from what I've read.

Is it correct the new Stangs use the 5r55w? And has Ford fixed the tranny issues?

 

Isn't Ford offering a 5 year / 60K mile warranty on all new cars, now? If you're really worried about it, then I 'm sure they'll be happy to sell you an extension. If you're buying used, then you could wait until next year. The factory warranty is transferable, if you pick up a used 2007, then you'll be able to take advantage of the longer warranty.

I haven't heard anyone complain about transmission problems in their automatic, yet. The truth is the average person puts between 12k - 15k miles on a car per year. If the problem doesn't show up until 30k or 55K, then you probably won't start hearing about it for years to come. I guess you'll just have to trust Ford to have fixed the problem.

Personally, I own an automatic and I'm not losing sleep over it.

How much is it costing for people to get their 5r55w's fixed?

 

The tranny has no dipstick but uses a "level" tube in the drain plug to gauge level. The system works - just uses different procedures. Fill-for-life fluids mean fill-for-life of the warranty. Change the tranny fluid every 2 years/30K with a good synthetic Mercon V rated fluid and you'll narry have a problem. Buy the AUTO - no real technical reason note to!!

 

The solenoid pack is about $320 from Ford. Plus about 2 hours to replace. Most shops want to replace the entire tranny to the tune of $2600, give or take.

I take care of my equipment, so that wouldn't be my largest concern. Considering Explorer owners are having problems, I'm more curious about how well the C3 derivative can handle power over time. There's definitely the aftermarket with 4-speed autos built for high horse, but how well does the 5r55w hold up.

 

I had problems with my tranny dripping oil at first Ford said that some cars were overfilled from the factory and the oil was relieving out the vent tube so the fix would be to check the fluid levels and everything should be fine. Well that did not work a week later it started dripping again. So I carried it back they replaced the vent tube and I think a check valve . That did not work either once again oil on the garage floor. So back to the dealer I went this time they replaced the pack I think you are referring to that was back in around July of 05 and I have not had any problems since. I have been on these boards daily since 4/05 I have only seen one other person with the same problem I had so it must not be to common of a problem.

 

No problems with mine.. I also haven't read or seen a problem

about one..



R

 

this tranny was also used in the new two seater thunderbird

so it has been in service for awhile, i hanvt heard of any major problems yet, but i heard somwhere that this new auto "could" be kinda fragile if your gonna drag race with it.

 

The only thing that concerns me about the auto trans is the fact that its built in France.

 

Does anyone know if increasing the line pressure as many tunes do, causes any future problems. The trans. really seems to wind up and shift hard, seems as through its doing harm, but I don't know much about an a/t.

 

How does the Tune increase the line pressure?

Kev