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2002 ford focus transmission problem
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scottie
New User
Nov 6, 2006, 6:46 PM
Post #1 of 13
(71314 views)
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2002 ford focus transmission problem
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my ford goes into nuetral when it should engage third gear overdrive switch the overdrive off and it stay's in third gear fine any ideas the fault code says sticking module but i dont know where it is, had pan off and its all electronic
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aokrongly
New User
Jul 26, 2008, 12:36 PM
Post #2 of 13
(71010 views)
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Re: 2002 ford focus transmission problem
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The first time this issue happened (at 60k miles) I paid a transmission shop $600 to fix it. It just happened again (at 100k miles) and I fixed it myself for about $50. It's a fairly common problem, so I'm posting the symptoms, codes and instructions here to help others.
I own a 2002 Ford Focus with automatic transmission. The symptoms are that the transmission disengages (slips out of gear) when it goes into 3rd gear. When the car slows down to 20 miles an hour or so (or when you stop) it re-engages. You can drive the car in 1st or 2nd gear generally. The transmission light comes on. There are no noises associated with this problem. If you have this problem then it's probably the "A" Solenoid that needs to be replaced. Here's how you make sure that's the case and fix it for $50.
1. You need to pull the diagnostic computer codes. Ford will pull them for you for $100. But, you can do it for free by going to AutoZone. They have a loaner computer diagnostic code puller. If you bring the car they'll just do it for you in the parking lot. If you want to borrow the tool then they will want a $200 security deposit. I recommend that you bring the car to them if it's close. Also, there are lots of small shops that will pull the code for you for free. There's no reason to pay a "diagnostic fee" to pull the computer repair code. This code will tell you Exactly which solenoid to replace. It's typically the "A" solenoid, though. (If you borrow the code puller then you need to plug it into a slot that's inside the car in the bottom part of the front console, near the hood opening latch. There's a plastic cover that you open. Plug in the machine and turn the ignition key to on without starting the car. It should show you the code.)
2. Once you get the code you need to know which solenoid to replace. Here is a list of diagnostic solenoid codes:
P0750 SSA SSA solenoid circuit failure SSA circuit failed to provide voltage drop across solenoid. Circuit open or shorted or PCM driver failure during on-board diagnostic. No reverse gear (short) or no fourth gear (open). Refer to Pinpoint Test A.
P0751 SSA SSA functional failure Mechanical or hydraulic failure of the shift solenoid. Not all gears present. REFER to Diagnosis By Symptom (307-01 , DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING).
P0755 SSB SSB solenoid circuit failure SSB circuit fails to provide voltage drop across solenoid. Circuit open or shorted or PCM driver failure during on-board diagnostic. Not all gears present. No converter clutch apply in third and fourth gears. Refer to Pinpoint Test A.
P0756 SSB SSB functional failure Mechanical or hydraulic failure of the shift solenoid. Not all gears present. No converter clutch apply in third and fourth gears. REFER to Diagnosis By Symptom (307-01 , DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING).
P0760 SSC SSC solenoid circuit failure SSC circuit fails to provide voltage drop across solenoid. Circuit open or shorted or PCM driver failure during on-board diagnostic. Not all gears present. Refer to Pinpoint Test A.
P0761 SSC SSC functional failure Mechanical or hydraulic failure of the shift solenoid. Not all gears present. Refer to Pinpoint Test A.
P0765 SSD SSD solenoid circuit failure SSD circuit fails to provide voltage drop across solenoid. Circuit open, shorted or PCM driver circuit failure during on-board diagnostics. Not all gears present. Refer to Pinpoint Test A.
P0766 SSD SSD functional failure Mechanical or hydraulic failure of the shift solenoid. Not all gears present. Refer to Pinpoint Test A.
P0770 SSE SSE solenoid circuit failure SSE circuit failed to provide voltage drop across solenoid. Circuit open. Shorted or PCM driver circuit failed during on-board diagnostics. Not all gears present. Refer to Pinpoint Test A.
P0771 SSE SSE functional failure Mechanical or hydraulic failure of the shift solenoid. Not all gears present. Refer to Pinpoint Test A.
3. It's fairly easy to replace the solenoid. You need a 5/16 socket and rachet and a tube of Gray RTV Gasket Maker (you can get it at any auto parts store).
4. You need to buy the solenoid. I only found it at Ford. For some reason when I told 3 different parts managers I wanted the "A" solenoid (which is how it's described in every Ford transmission diagram and on the computer code) they didn't know which one it was. There are 6 solenoids in the transmission. The "A" solenoid is the one they sell the most of and probably have on hand - because it goes out fairly often on this model. The Ford part number (off the bag) is XS4Z-7H148-AA. I paid about $45 for it at a Ford dealership.
5. For the repair you need to raise the front of the car. I used ramps, but make sure it's secure. The transaxle (transmission) is in the front right, as you look at the car. The bottom is a pan, like an oil pan, with about 20 bolts holding it on. They're 5/16th's. There's transmission fluid in the pan, but no "drain bolt". So, have a pan ready to catch the fluid once the transmission pan comes loose. Be careful. Transmission fluid is hot, it will make a mess. And, the pan has a silicone gasket seal around it. So, once you get the bolts off/loose you will probably need to work the pan loose. Don't bend it. (Make sure you get all the bolts off, it's easy to miss one.) I left one bolt loose on the front so I could ease the pan loose from the transmission on the back and let the fluid run into a pan (without the whole pan coming off). Then I removed the pan.
6. You will see SIX solenoids in the transmission. You can't miss them. Each one has a different colored wire going to it. The A Solenoid has a white wire going to it, it's a small solenoid in the center on the right. It's held in place by one bolt (that's also 5/16ths). Unplug the wire, remove the bolt and remove the solenoid. Put the new solenoid in.
7. Carefully and completely scrape all the old gasket off the transmission surface the the edge of the fluid pan. Clean it. Then apply the new gasket (from the tube) onto the edge of the pan. It is VERY IMPORTANT that you just apply a thin bead of gasket compound. Don't use too much or the excess will get into your transmission and cause a problem.
8. Replace the pan. Let the gasket set according to the instructions on the tube - READ THE INSTRUCTIONS. And refill the transmission with transmission fluid. I was told to use the same fluid I took out, by someone I trust. You use a funnel and refill it through the transmission dipstick tube (front, right of the engine, yellow handle). Make sure you put it in the right place. Fill it slowly. Then run the engine and check the fluid. Add until it reads correctly on the dipstick. You check transmission fluid with the car running and the fluid hot.
9. Look under to car to make sure there are no leaks around the transmission pan. Over the next days and weeks keep an eye out for leaking transmission fluid when you park. If the transmission pan is leaking then you'll need to redo the gasket but do a better job this time.
That's it! It's so easy a 14 year old kid could do it. It doesn't take strength, mechanical ability or the ability to grow a beard. It just takes care, patience and dirty hands. Have a shop do it for you for $450-$600 OR MORE. Or do it yourself for $45 for the part and $5 for a tube of RTV gasket.
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bigtorque
New User
Jun 6, 2010, 8:26 AM
Post #3 of 13
(63871 views)
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Re: 2002 ford focus transmission problem
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Dude , great frickin write up. You just saved me hundreds. I had the exact same problem. I followed your steps exactly and my Focus is back on the road ! Took about 2.5 hrs start to finish including running to go get the solenoid from the dealership. $41 for the part and $6 for tube of blue goo. You in Chicago anywhere ? I wanna buy you a beer or 3. Thank you so much !
-Kyle
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Hammer Time
Ultimate Carjunky
/ Moderator
Jun 6, 2010, 8:33 AM
Post #4 of 13
(63862 views)
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Re: 2002 ford focus transmission problem
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I'm glad that our archives were helpful to you but since this thread is nearly 4 years old, there is no point in responding to it.
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We offer help in answering questions, clarifying things or giving advice but we are not a substitute for an on-site inspection by a professional.
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bigtorque
New User
Jun 6, 2010, 9:04 AM
Post #5 of 13
(63855 views)
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Re: 2002 ford focus transmission problem
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Yeah its very old but Im totally appreciative of the info someone took the time to post. Probably one of the most satisfying research and repairs Ive done on my car. Saved lots on that one. Thank you.
-Kyle
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Sidom
Veteran
/ Moderator
Jun 6, 2010, 9:14 AM
Post #6 of 13
(63854 views)
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Re: 2002 ford focus transmission problem
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It's amazing what you can solve with a search engine......
Aokrongly has helped at least 2 people we know of with that post.... He hasn't responded so probably doesn't have the email notification setup, which is too bad but glad to hear it worked for you..
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bigtorque
New User
Jun 6, 2010, 11:13 AM
Post #7 of 13
(63843 views)
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Re: 2002 ford focus transmission problem
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Yeah pretty amazing. Just used Internet Explorer and typed in "Ford Focus transmission no 3rd gear" and it was the 6th one down. The net is a wonderful thing.
cheers ,
Kyle
2002 Focus SE
110,000mi going strong and reliable as hell
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Mastermixer
New User
Oct 11, 2010, 7:10 PM
Post #8 of 13
(61521 views)
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Re: 2002 ford focus transmission problem
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Amazing detailed instructions. I agree with the other guy on this thread...where the heck do you live....if you are ever in town .....i will buy you a beer...You just saved me hundreds of dollars....it worked like a charm...Thank you....thank you......thank you!
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Tom Greenleaf
Ultimate Carjunky
/ Moderator
Oct 11, 2010, 7:38 PM
Post #9 of 13
(61510 views)
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Re: 2002 ford focus transmission problem
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Any of us appreciate hearing of a success.
Wanna buy me a beer - no problem I'll buy - IN BOSTON ACTUAL YOU CAN PAY THE PARKING! Smile kinda??
T
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Tom Greenleaf
Ultimate Carjunky
/ Moderator
Dec 6, 2010, 12:04 PM
Post #11 of 13
(60323 views)
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Re: 2002 ford focus transmission problem
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Please start a new thread for your own specific issues as this one is over four years old,
T
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Hammer Time
Ultimate Carjunky
/ Moderator
Dec 6, 2010, 2:47 PM
Post #12 of 13
(60312 views)
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Re: 2002 ford focus transmission problem
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Gosh, how many times do you have to tell someone not to post to an old thread. I'm locking this one.
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We offer help in answering questions, clarifying things or giving advice but we are not a substitute for an on-site inspection by a professional.
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Tom Greenleaf
Ultimate Carjunky
/ Moderator
Dec 6, 2010, 3:04 PM
Post #13 of 13
(60306 views)
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Re: 2002 ford focus transmission problem
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It's one of many things that need adjustment for the forums IMO. All threads should self lock after a period of time (month maybe) and stay open for archives indefinately.
Nearing 20,000 registered users there should be a short "tutorial" on how to make the most of a question or suggestion and start new. IDK - I'm always logged in so about never get the view we get exactly.
Still have heard from the big guy on a site tune-up,
Tom
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