Automatic Transmission "2" & "3"

Traditionally, 2 limits the vehicle to the first 2 gears. 1 will keep the vehicle in first gear.

So, 3 should work the way you expect. But, I can't really find anything regarding a 3rd mode.

If you have your manual, it may tell you in there.

Also, you should know that the 2002 Explorer is notorious for transmission failures. Ford just can't get it right when it comes to their automatic transmissions.

Thanks BananaPie.

The manual is no help and Googling was no help either since the key words are so vague.

I'm glad to hear that about the transmission. I'll have to have it checked out before the extended warrantee I have expires.

This is how many automatic transmissions operate:

1 First--Driving in 1st gear; stays in 1st gear, does not shift up. For engine braking.
2 Second--Driving in 2nd gear; stays in 2nd gear, does not shift up and down. For engine braking or better traction starting off on loose or slippery surface.
D3 Drive (1st through 3rd)--For rapid acceleration at highway speeds and general driving; starts off in 1st, shifts automatically to 2nd then 3rd, depending on vehicle speed and throttle position. Downshifts through lower gears on deceleration to stop. The lock-up mechanism comes into operation in 3rd.
D4 Drive (1st through 4th)--General driving; starts off in 1st, shifts automatically to 2nd, 3rd, then 4th, depending on vehicle speed and throttle position. Downshifts through 3rd, 2nd, and 1st on deceleration to stop. The lock-up mechanism comes into operation in 2nd, 3rd, and 4th, when the transmission is in the D4 position.


Therefore, in your situation, Rick, I think driving in 3rd stays in 3rd gear, does not shift up and down. If it was D3, however, it would function as mentioned in the description above.

So John, do you think that my experience is a "failure"...or something actually wrong, or going wrong, with my transmission?

If it's a 3, and not a D3, I think it's acting the way it should. It should not upshift or downshift, but lockup in 3rd. If you have a D3, then it should upshift from 1st to 2nd to 3rd; however, it should not upshift to 4th. Similarly, it should downshift from 3rd to 2nd to 1st, if you have a D3, and are decelerating to stop.

As we talked before, the key to proper ATX performance, longevity, and fuel mileage is to drop and clean the pan, change the filter, and refill with Mobil 1 Synthetic Multi-Vehicle ATF every 30,000 miles. To simplify the process in the future, I recommend drilling a 1/2" hole in the transmission pan and installing a B&M drain plug ($8). Ford often embosses a "O" on the pan, to mark the spot for installing a plug.

See I have a different opinion on this one.

With most modern automatics they have a cut off or whatever you want to call it.
They will not allow you to over rev the engine and take a chance of ruining your transmission or motor.

If I have manuely put my transmission in low gear or first gear it. No matter what at 30 mph it will kick it up to second gear.

If I have manuely put it in second gear at 45 mph it kicks it up to third gear.

If I have manuely put it in third gear and it gets up to 70 mph it will kick into overdrive.

I'd be fearful of doing something that might void the warrantee. I typically drive vehicles about 5 years, so I think I'll get it in for it's final checkup and trade er in for a smaller suv.

2002 Pontiac Gran Prix, quit in drive, only moves in 2nd, is it time for a rebuilt or what is my other option

Walkerg, what's the mileage on the car? Has the transmission fluid and filter been changed every 30,000 miles?

Dropping and inspecting the pan will likely answer the question of what should be done. It sounds like the clutch packs are shot. If so, you may be able to find a hungry local mechanic who could rebuild it for you. Dealers will only install a rebuilt with a 12-month warranty.