# Transmission Problems **URL:** \ **Category:** Maintenance/Repairs\ **Tags:** explorer, ford\ **Created:** [March 21, 2011, 11:57am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/transmission-problems/62832 "2011-03-21T11:57:18Z")\ **Posts on this page:** 3\ **Page:** 1
**Author:** ![midgevmd](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/m/a5b964/32.png) [@midgevmd](https://community.cartalk.com/u/midgevmd)\ **Post date:** [March 21, 2011, 11:57am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/transmission-problems/62832/1 "2011-03-21T11:57:18Z")
My 2002 Explorer LTD with 155K miles on it is in terrific shape except for a worsening rough shift into overdrive (automatic transmission) and a clunk which occurs with increasing frequency when I shift into reverse. I would love to keep the car but don’t want to spend the money for a new or rebuilt transmission. Is there any hope for a less expensive repair and if so what would you suggest? There is no access for owner approach to transmission fluid - I have already looked in the manual. I would need to take the truck to a garage as I cannot do repairs myself. Thanks for your help. Midge ---
**Author:** ![VDCdriver](https://sea1.discourse-cdn.com/cartalk/user_avatar/community.cartalk.com/vdcdriver/32/30_2.png) [@VDCdriver](https://community.cartalk.com/u/VDCdriver)\ **Post date:** [March 21, 2011, 12:19pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/transmission-problems/62832/2 "2011-03-21T12:19:17Z")
You may actually have two different problems. The “clunk” when you shift into reverse could be the result of a worn-out U-joint on the driveshaft. This is not a very expensive repair, but it should not be deferred. If the bad U-joint is the forward one, if it breaks the forward end of the driveshaft will hit the pavement and your vehicle could wind up doing its impersonation of a pole-vaulter. The rough shift definitely needs to be checked out by a transmission specialist. If you have faithfully changed the trans fluid (and filter) every 3 yrs/30k miles, you may luck out with low-cost repairs. If this transmission has not been serviced as I described, then at 155k miles, you are right on target for trans failure. I suggest that you take the vehicle to an independent transmission shop that has been in business for at least 3 years. Whatever you do, DO NOT take it to AAMCO, Lee Myles, Cottman, Mr. Transmission, or any other chain operation. Those “chain” places are notorious for telling you that you need a new/rebuilt transmission, even if cheaper repairs are all that is needed. And, both their workmanship and their guarantees are usually questionable. A trans shop can take care of a U-joint problem, in addition to diagnosing your trans problem. Maybe you will luck out, and normal trans functioning will be restored by a fluid and filter change–although that is not likely if the trans has not been serviced properly in the past. Good luck! ---
**Author:** ![midgevmd](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/m/a5b964/32.png) [@midgevmd](https://community.cartalk.com/u/midgevmd)\ **Post date:** [March 21, 2011, 12:23pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/transmission-problems/62832/3 "2011-03-21T12:23:29Z")
Thanks for the prompt help. The truck has been serviced VERY regularly over the 155K miles so I hope your suggestions will resolve my problems. Thanks again. Midge