TommySchroeder

Fiesta gearbox emergency mode

Hi, I'm having problems with my 2000 Ford Fiesta diesel. The engine warning light is on, and the error memory says it's the transmission oil temperature sensor. My gearbox is stuck in emergency mode, gear changes are slipping, and there's a grinding noise sometimes. I've only done 68185 km. Could this be a sensor fault, or is something more sinister going on? Has anyone experienced something similar?

A 2000 Ford Fiesta diesel is experiencing gearbox issues, including being stuck in emergency mode, slipping gear changes, and a grinding noise, with an engine warning light indicating a transmission oil temperature sensor fault. The problem may be due to low gearbox oil levels, which can cause overheating and trigger the sensor warning. The suggested solution is to check and top up the gearbox oil, preferably by a mechanic, to resolve the issue.

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4 comment(s)

Greetings! I had a Fiesta a while back (not the same year). Your symptoms do ring a bell. Was the gearbox oil level checked recently? Low oil can cause the same issues you describe, like overheating problems which can lead to the sensor throwing a fault. The sensor is basically just warning you about the bigger problem. Think of it like a smoke detector warning you about a fire, not the fire itself!

That’s a good analogy! No, I haven't checked the oil level myself, as I am no expert when it comes to cars. Is it easy enough to do at home, or should I just take it to a mechanic?

Checking the gearbox oil level can be tricky, depending on the Fiesta's design. Some have a dipstick, while others require removing a fill plug and checking if the oil is level with the hole. Unless you're confident working on cars, and familiar with the procedure for your specific Fiesta (2000 models can be a bit different compared to the newer ones), I’d highly recommend a workshop. Trust me, messing it up can cause even MORE transmission issues, which nobody wants! A quick check doesn’t cost too much.

Thanks a lot for the advice! I took it to my local mechanic, and you were spot on. The gearbox oil level was indeed too low! They topped it up, reset the error, and thankfully, everything is running smoothly again. The total repair cost me 365€, including the sensor check. Really appreciate your help!

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FORD

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FIESTA