If you drive a Ford SUV, you may already know that Ford Explorer transmission issues show up far more often than many owners expect. These problems are not limited to high-mileage vehicles or older models.
In recent years, drivers across the country have reported sudden slipping, jerking, and shifting failures that affect daily reliability. Transmission concerns can also lead to safety worries, expensive repairs, and ongoing losses when the problem keeps returning. With so many Explorer owners facing similar faults, it is fair to ask what’s going on and what you can do next.
Transmission Issues in the Ford Explorer
Many drivers have reported ongoing transmission problems in popular Explorer model years. The issues tend to cluster around certain years more than others, including 2012–2016 and 2020–2022 Explorers. These vehicles often show recurring shifting faults, delayed gear engagement, and hesitation during acceleration. The problems may stem from faulty transmission components, poor calibration, or internal drivetrain defects.
Drivers report Ford Explorer drivetrain problems that sometimes cause the vehicle to:
- Shudder while driving
- Jerk during light acceleration
- Roll backward on hills even when in drive
- Have a rough downshift
- Make a sudden bang or loud clunk when shifting into gear
- Experience a sudden loss of power when the transmission fails to respond
Transmission failures can create serious risks for drivers and passengers. Sudden loss of acceleration can leave you vulnerable in traffic. A locked gear may prevent you from merging or changing lanes. These issues also tend to get worse over time, which leads owners back to the dealership again and again.
Early Signs of Transmission Issues in Ford Vehicles
Catching transmission problems right away can help you avoid a complete transmission failure. Some signs of faulty transmissions appear gradually, while others are obvious from the start.
Early indicators include:
- Small delays when shifting from park to drive
- Mild slipping when accelerating
- Occasional hesitation during gear changes
- Soft clunks you only hear at low speeds
- Light vibrations or shuddering during gentle acceleration
- Slight burning smells
- Minor transmission fluid leaks
These issues may begin as rare occurrences. Over time, they often turn into clear signs that something is wrong, such as:
- Strong jerking when shifting
- Loud clunks or grinding noises
- Gear slipping at highway speeds
- Sudden loss of power
- Warning lights related to the drivetrain
- Intense shuddering while accelerating
- Failure to change into or out of certain gears
Some Ford Explorer owners describe a clunky or rough driving feel, especially at lower speeds. They also mention rough shifts, harsh gear changes, and feeling stiff or unsettled on uneven roads. These issues often occur during gentle acceleration or during slow stop-and-go driving. When a transmission behaves this way, it usually signals a deeper drivetrain concern that needs attention right away.
What to Do If Your Car Shows Transmission Issue Signs
If your Explorer begins to show these symptoms, take action right away:
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- Bring it to an authorized dealership for diagnosis. Describe the exact behavior. Use precise examples, such as jerking at 35 mph or slipping at stoplights. Specific details help technicians document the issue.
- Don’t give up if they “can’t replicate” the issue. Request that they note this in your repair paperwork. Many Ford Explorer transmission failures happen intermittently. A record that you reported the problem still helps protect your rights.
- Ask for all repair records in writing. Keep every invoice, inspection report, and communication from the service department. Written documentation creates a clear, detailed record of the problem and the attempts to repair it.
- Avoid delaying repairs. Continuing to drive with a faulty transmission may worsen the condition. It can also weaken your claim later if you choose to pursue Lemon Law relief.
- Contact a Lemon Law attorney. If your Explorer’s transmission issues continue despite the authorized dealer making several repair attempts while under warranty, you should consult an attorney about your Lemon Law rights.
Does a Repeated Transmission Issue Make My Car a Lemon?
Repeated transmission problems may qualify your Explorer as a lemon, depending on your situation. In California, a vehicle may meet the Lemon Law criteria if:
- The issue substantially impacts the vehicle’s safety, use, or value.
- The problem is covered by Ford’s original warranty and began while the warranty was still valid.
- The manufacturer or authorized dealer hasn’t been able to fix the defect after a reasonable number of repair attempts or an excessive amount of time in the shop.
Transmission issues usually count as substantial defects because they affect the vehicle’s safety and reliability. A failing transmission can leave you stranded or unable to accelerate. These effects can result in significant losses, including towing costs, rental fees, and ongoing repair expenses.
Whether your vehicle meets the Lemon Law threshold depends on the defect and your repair history. Consistent failed repairs, recurring replacements, and extended shop time all help show that the defect is not resolving.
If your Ford Explorer qualifies for Lemon Law protections, the manufacturer may have to buy it back and refund what you have spent on it.
What If You Suspect Your Ford Explorer Is a Lemon?
If you think your Explorer might qualify as a lemon, start by gathering your documentation, including:
- All repair records
- Diagnostic notes
- Dates of repairs and return visits
- Photos and videos of the transmission issue
- Any communication with Ford
- Receipts, bills, and invoices for related losses
Review the timeline of your transmission concerns. Look for patterns such as repeated failed fixes, days without your vehicle, or technician statements acknowledging the problem.
Do not trade in the car or try to sell it before talking to a qualified Lemon Law attorney. Doing so may limit your legal options. A legal professional can review your timeline, explain your options, and guide you through your next steps.
Contact a Lemon Law Attorney for More Help
When your Ford Explorer keeps showing serious transmission issues during the original warranty period despite the manufacturer making multiple repair attempts, help is available. You do not have to deal with constant repairs or ongoing losses on your own.
At The Barry Law Firm, we have exclusively handled California Lemon Law claims since 2010. Our Lemon Law attorneys can assess your case and explain whether your defective vehicle may qualify for repurchase under California law. We can also handle all communication with Ford and protect your rights along the way. And we’ll do it all without ever charging you anything. California’s Lemon Law requires the manufacturer to cover your legal fees in a successful claim, and you’ll never get a bill from us – no matter the outcome of your case.
If you believe your Explorer has a faulty transmission or recurring drivetrain defects, reach out today for guidance in a FAST & FREE consultation.
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