I have a 1999 Ford Explorer. Yesterday while driving my O.D. light started flashing and my SUV would not stay in overdrive. After making a stop and starting the SUV again, I had no problems the rest of the day. No problems going to work this morning. Coming home, my car slipped out of gear and rpms increased as I was doing 50mph. I can get going (from a complete stop) about 15-20mph and it tries to shift gears and slips again. What could cause this???
The Transmission Control Module (TCM) has detected a problem, and the flashing ‘OD Off’ light is it’s way of telling you there is a problem. It as now dropped into ‘limp mode’. You need to have the TCM scanned for codes to determine the problem. Continuing to drive the truck in this condition may damage the transmission to the point of needing a rebuild or replacement.
These trucks are know to have issues with the solenoid pack. Replacing it at the first sign of trouble could save you from an expensive rebuild. The solenoid pack can be replaced without removing the transmission from the truck. I would have it towed on a flatbed to a reputable transmission shop in your area.