2014 Ford Explorer: complete transmission failure

Filed Feb 2, 2025 · IN

While accelerating between 25-45 mph, my vehicle experiences severe shuddering and shaking, originating from the transmission. It feels as though the vehicle struggles to gain speed, hesitating significantly. Once I accelerate past the severe shudder—around 50 mph—the issue subsides slightly but a light vibration remains noticeable as I continue driving. This hesitation and lack of proper acceleration have led to several close calls, with other vehicles nearly rear-ending me. I'm extremely concerned that my vehicle might fail completely while driving, posing a serious risk of an accident and potential harm to myself and others. This issue has progressively worsened over the past three years, starting with minor symptoms and now becoming severe. Despite numerous repairs, inspections, and personal research, the problem persists. In my research, I discovered that 2016-2019 Ford Explorers (FWD 2.3L) and 2015-2019 Lincoln MKC (AWD 2.3L) models are under recall for similar transmission issues. The recall involves replacing the Torque Converter, Main Control Valve Body, and Solenoid Body, along with disassembling and cleaning the transmission as per the service procedure. My vehicle is a 2014 Ford Explorer FWD 2.3L, manufactured at the Chicago Assembly Plant, with a build date just eight months prior to the affected 2016-2019 Explorers. I believe this recall should be extended to include earlier models like mine, as the issue seems consistent across vehicles from the same plant and production timeline. I’ve spoken with multiple owners of similar-year Ford Explorers, all of whom report the same transmission problems. Additionally, Russ Moore Transmission—a reputable transmission shop in Fort Wayne—diagnosed my vehicle with a failed torque converter and recommended a complete transmission rebuild due to the severity and duration of the issue. The repair quote is $4,160, and they strongly advised against driving the vehicle, citing the risk of total transmission failure/potential

Filed Aug 19, 2022 · Transmission · MN

The transmission failed without warning while traveling down the highway. The vehicle is currently being diagnosed but cost of repair is unknown at this time.

Filed Feb 18, 2022 · Transmission · MD

Upon attempting to pick up my child from school the car began to jerk, hiss, and click. The vehicle gave no warning and recently (2 weeks ago) had was serviced for an oil change. The transmission is the issue. The vehicle is available for inspection. The severe jerking occurred when I was driving at 55 mph which significantly impacted my driving as I abruptly loss power. The vehicle is currently at a repair shop, Harrison’s Transmission in Easton, MD. The vehicle has not been evaluated by insurance, police or manufacturer. There was no warning lights or system notifications prior to the transmission failure.

Filed Oct 8, 2021 · Transmission · TX

Torque converters failed without notice or warning. Could lead to complete transmission failure and risk passengers and other drivers safety. Dealer has confirmed the issue. Manufacturer has denied any sort of coverage or assistance. Vehicle has less than 52,000 miles and will now require a complete transmission replacement. Faulty engineering and manufacturing. Unacceptable.

Filed Jun 11, 2021 · Transmission · OK

Transmission failed on my 2014 Ford Explorer. I was made aware that the Ford dealer has seen a lot of transmission failures. I have to have a new transmission. Is Ford going to pay for this since they are aware of this issue?

Filed Mar 19, 2021 · Transmission · 85,000 miles · VA

Tl* the contact owns a 2014 ford explorer. The contact stated that while driving 55 MPH, the vehicle started making a loud grinding sound. The vehicle stalled without warning. The vehicle was coasted onto the road shoulder. The vehicle was towed to try-county ford inc (1348 four locust hwy, direction keysville, va 23947, (434) 736-8444) to be diagnosed. The contact was informed that there was an internal transmission failure and the transmission needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that the VIN was not included in 20v692000 (power train). The approximate failure mileage was 85,000.

Filed Feb 18, 2020 · Suspension, Transmission · 111,000 miles · CA

Tl* the contact owns a 2014 ford explorer. The contact stated that upon starting the vehicle, the vehicle was shifted into drive and the vehicle shuddered and accelerated independently without warning. The vehicle was towed to autonation ford valencia 23920 creekside rd, valencia, ca 91355 to be diagnosed. A diagnostic was performed and the contact was informed that her vehicle had experienced transmission failure and was given an estimate for the repair. The vehicle was included in the federal safety agency recall number: 19v435000 (suspension). The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but offered no further assistance. The failure mileage was 111,000.