A couple problems, I need cleared up by some of you guys

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1) I'm experiencing an intermittent problem with my 2002 Ford Windstar. It seems that when travelling on the highway, and putting any kind of stress on the engine, other then that of normal driving, a "Check Transmission" message comes up on my dash in replacement of the distance to empty, and outside temperature. At the same time, the o/d off light flashes. By hitting reset, the check transmission light will go away for about 25 km, and then come back on. By turning the car off, and then turn it back on, this message and o/d light will stay off. I find it only happened twice. Once when I floored it to get away from a truck that was pissing me off (not too re-assuring when going 140 on the highway), and another time on our way to Montreal hauling a trailer behind us (2500 lbs), and putting some force on the gas while passing a truck. Anyone experienced this problem before?

2) There seems to be a creaking noise coming from in and around the rear passenger side captain's chair. I believe it's coming from outside the car, and therefore I assumed it's an issue with the suspension. The noise varies based on outside temperature (which is why i figured it had nothing to do with the seat). Creaking is more noticeable when it is hot outside, and during the winter months, is literally non-existent. Anyone ever have this problem also?

3) What can I say. Brakes suck a$$. Anyway to improve the feel of them, or the stopping distance out of them? I was thinking of taking the car to Midas and have them re-do the whole brake system, but after reading some horror stories about midas, I'm a little reluctant to follow through. Any advice on where to have the windstar brakes serviced? any recommendation on types of front pads and rear shoes to install???

4) Why the hell does this car have so many creaks and rattles? anyway to pinpoint all these and fix some of them?

All in all, I hate this car...please help me fix it. If this car ran as well as my Acura did, I would love it...but right now, I'm hoping for it to be involved in a massive accident, where none of my family members are in the car when this happens, and the car is completely totalled. The day I see this happen, the day I become a happy man!!!

someone help me with this lemon.

BTW I have 26 500 km on this car.

Thanks