96' Taurus, LX, 3.0, 24V, DOHC Transmission issue:

We had to replace our 96 Taurus as we involved in an accident (not our fault, three years ago). I opted to replace it with the exact same year vehicle (used) with the DOHC engine and the LX model fully loaded. I had all of the fluids replaced save the transmission fluid at my mechanics suggestion. As it seemed to perhaps not been replaced in the vehicles history he thought it best to leave well enought alone.

About three weeks ago the transmission started exhibiting some odd issues. When coming to a sudden stop the car would either stop then "surge" a little forward or come to a stop and slip out of gear. I would slide it into park then back into D and all was well.

I had the fluids and filter replaced by a tranmission shop and they suggested adding Lucas transmission additive then to drive it for a while and see how it performed.

All seemed well for a week or so however I have a few occasions where the initial problems have surfaced. Is there some element to the tramission that could cause such an issue other than the transmission itself or are we looking at an expensive replacement in future?

Regards,

Val

I don't agree with that first guy who advised you not to change the fluids because of the mileage.

But I agree with second bit of advice. You didn't mention the mileage, but if it was high enough for the first guy to recommend not changing the ATF, then it's probably a fairly high mileage car. Particularly with the higher-powered DOHC engine, I'm not surprised your transmission may be on the way out now.

But to answer your question, the transmission is the only reason you're getting slippage. I concur: Add Lucas and see what happens. It may be time to decide to sell it or just run it until it dies; I wouldn't spend the money to put another transmission into the car; it just isn't worth that much.

When we bought the car to replace the first Taurus it had 120KM on the engine. I agreed with my mechanic and left the Transmission fluids alone. I wish I hadn't as we did purchase a 2year power train warranty which has of course now expired.

It's shame to give up the entire car if the Transmission goes but all things considered it might be the way to go. The car currently has 190KM. Otherwise the car is pristine an has not given us any problems. My wife is back at University getting her Masters Degree hence money is an issue so I will have to explore all options.

Thanks very much for your advice.

Regards,

Val

I don't agree with that first guy who advised you not to change the fluids because of the mileage.

But I agree with second bit of advice. You didn't mention the mileage, but if it was high enough for the first guy to recommend not changing the ATF, then it's probably a fairly high mileage car. Particularly with the higher-powered DOHC engine, I'm not surprised your transmission may be on the way out now.

But to answer your question, the transmission is the only reason you're getting slippage. I concur: Add Lucas and see what happens. It may be time to decide to sell it or just run it until it dies; I wouldn't spend the money to put another transmission into the car; it just isn't worth that much.

I agree--it's a shame. Unfortunately that's just the kind of cars these are. They make great used cars because they depreciate absurdly fast and can be had for very little. The result of that is that usually by the time they need a major repair, they're worth so little that you can just throw them away.

Me, personally, I would rather go buy another used car than go without my car for a week while they put a new transsmission in anyway. :)