In 2022, there were four safety recalls logged for Ford Explorers by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. These included the categories of the fuel system, gasoline, structure, and power train.
If you are the owner of a Ford Explorer, no matter the age of the vehicle, you expect it works properly and that it keeps you safe. However, the fact is that manufacturers can make vehicles with common defects, like the shift solenoid. You need to be away from what the common defects are and what your options are for a course of remedy.
Here are the details for the Ford Explorer transmission solenoid problems.
What Are Solenoids?
Solenoids are metal wire cylindrical coils that carry electric currents. The job of the shift interlock solenoid is to make sure you cannot shift a Ford Explorer from Park to Drive unless you first apply the brakes.
When the driver presses the brank pedal, the solenoid gets a signal and then releases a mechanical lock on the car’s shifter, allowing it to move. Further, it is the shift interlock solenoid which allows the shifter to move from Reverse to Park and from Neutral to Reverse.
Without the solenoid receiving the brake pedal signal, it is impossible for the shifter to release from its current position. If the shift interlock is not working properly, you cannot shift out of Park, nor can you shift past Neutral while in Drive.
Transmission Problems
Transmission slipping is most common to see in the 2004 Ford Explorer. This can occur in a few ways, including:
- Interruption in acceleration
- Difficulty shifting gears
- Failure or delay in reversing
- Incredibly high RPMs
- The check engine light is on
- Strange sounds during shifting
- Burned smells
There are a few common causes, including a failed solenoid. Other causes could be:
- Difficulty with torque converter
- Faulty clutch
- Low or burned transmission fluid
- Worn-out transmission bands or gears
How can you fix these transmission problems? You could replace the transmission, the shift solenoid, or the shift solenoid and bands.
Shift Solenoid Symptoms
How can you tell if your Ford Explorer has this issue? A typical indication is that you experience lackluster gear shifting. Other shift solenoid symptoms include the dashboard lights notifying you, the transmission being stuck in neutral, or you may find that the car entering a limp mode.
Problems and Cost
This is a significant issue to have with a Ford Explorer. When you experience this problem, you will want to fix it as soon as possible.
Reports show that the typical cost to fix or replace the Ford Explorer Shift Interlock Solenoid is $143. This breaks down to $48 approximately for the parts and $95 for labor. However, prices vary by location.
The Ford Explorer and the Lemon Law
Do you have a Ford Explorer that is not performing up to par? If you believe you may have a lemon on your hands, then you need to get in touch with the Robison Lemon Law Group LLC.
As a founding partner, Emma Robison has spent countless hours helping clients remedy the issues they face because of their lemon car purchases.
Don’t let a lemon cause you any further pain. Contact the Robison Lemon Law Group LLC today and get help with your PA Lemon Law, NJ Lemon Law, or NY Lemon Law car.
