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fabianstern1

Windstar Transmission Problems

I'm having transmission issues with my 2003 Ford Windstar with a gasoline engine. The paddle shifters don't work, shifts are slipping and unclean, there are grinding noises, and sometimes it goes into emergency mode. The error code points to a defective transmission control unit. Has anyone else had similar problems?

4 comment(s)

patriciajohnson95

Sounds like your transmission control module is acting up. If the brain is telling the body (transmission) what to do, and the brain is scrambled, the body won't respond correctly. Are you sure the wiring harness to the TCM is okay? Sometimes a loose connection can mimic a failing module.

fabianstern1 (Author)

That's an interesting analogy. Thanks. Regarding the wiring harness, is there a specific area I should be inspecting, or a diagnostic procedure to confirm its integrity?

patriciajohnson95

Honestly, without proper diagnostic tools, it's tough to pinpoint the exact spot. The harness could be chafed anywhere between the TCM and the transmission. I'd hate for you to chase a ghost. With those symptoms and error codes, combined with the mileage, it really does sound like the TCM itself is the culprit. Best bet is to take it to a reputable shop that specializes in transmissions.

fabianstern1 (Author)

I appreciate the confirmation. I took your advice and brought it to a transmission specialist. They confirmed it was indeed the transmission control unit. The total repair cost came to approximately 1000€ Thank you for your time and assistance.

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