Transmission does not engage in forward gear, but drives in reverse?

MAMACOUCH1998

MEMBER
2003 LINCOLN TOWN CAR
4.6L
V8
2WD
AUTOMATIC
140,000 MILES

I was stopped at a red light and when it changed and I tried to go forward, my car bucked extremely hard, and I heard then I heard what sounded like metal shards being tossed around in a blender and the car would not go forward very fast. I eased off the road and we had it towed home. Now it will not engage any forward gear, but still drives in reverse.

1 Reply

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
108,262 POSTS

Hi,

Based on your description, something internal has come apart. It could be several things. For example, the forward clutch assembly, one-way clutch assembly, and so on.

Here is what I suggest: The first thing to do is remove the transmission pan to see if there are any broken parts laying in it. If there are, the transmission will need removed and taken apart to see exactly what has happened.

To remove the pan, see the two pics below. When you do this, make sure to have a large catcher under it to catch the fluid. Slightly loosen all bolts. Then select a corner of the pan that is easiest to get to and slowly remove the bolts to allow the fluid to drain from that section only. Otherwise, you will have a mess. LOL

Let me know what you find or if you have other questions.

Take care,

Joe

See pics below.

Images (Click to make bigger)