Transmission seems to be sluggish andvibrates when moving between gears at about 40-45 and 60-65. This has been the case for several years now, but recently towed a U-Haul trialor and it seems to have worsened and at times makes a noise for say 10-15 seonds that sound and feels like y9ou are driving on a rumbe strip on the highway shoulder. Does this sound like complete transmission issue could it need some minor adjustments?

Sounds like extreme shudder. Try changing the ATF with Mercon V. If the problem persists, I would take it to Ford for service.

Hey Tex, thanks for your iforomation. Probably should have provided that the Escape has about 126,000 miles on it,and the "shudders" actually last probaby 5 seconds or so. I counted out 15 seconds just for reasonableness and that was a long time -- more like 5 seconds per episode. I have read the owners manual since you answered my question concerning recommended intervals for changing the ATF fluid and type. The manual suggests using just "Mercon" and then cautions against mixing "Mercon" and "Mercon V". I'm planning to change the fluid tomorrow as you suggested. Will changing out and putting in Mercon "V" be OK? Is transaxle fluid change and ATF the same in this situation? Can't wait to change the fluid and see if this does the job. Thanks

Yes. Several years ago, Ford issued a TSB where they said it's fine to use Mercon V in all applications specifying Mercon. Ford no longer sells, uses, or specifies Mercon. Mercon V has enhanced anti-shudder properties, being a synthetic blend. I recommend Mobil 1 Synthetic Multi-Vehicle ATF.

The problem with Escapes is that it's almost impossible to change the transmission filter--this could be a contributing factor. It's usually done only on an overhaul. This is another reason why you want to change the ATF at least every 30,000 miles (20,000 miles, if used for towing).