Wife's car. A 2002 Ford Focus with about 70,000 miles and an automatic. (Disclaimer: This was a car her mom helped her into before I came along.) The car is slipping out of 3rd gear when it's not in overdrive. I'm not the greatest car guy in the world but I've had enough cars to know when an automatic transmission is slipping out of gear we're talking about a rebuild in all likelyhood. It's been a long time since I've had this problem and I'd like to hear from you car guys on this. Is there an off chance that the transmission needs something other than a rebuild? And who would you recommend to do such a job? What should I expect to pay? Any transmission guys (with references) out there need some extra cash? Or would I even want to consider a back yard job for this, even if the guy happened to invent the automatic transmission for Ford?

It's just been 10 years or so since I've had a car with major problems, need some advice... Thanks.

 

Is it out of warranty?

 

Yea when was the last tranny flush/filter change done or has it ever been done, id take it to Aamco and see what they say....

 

It's only 4 years old, and already having tranny problem???

 

that will happen if you dont service it....

 

I will try a fluid change first and see what happens. Thanks. I'll let you guys know.

 

I think this is the first time i've seen P-Man post a auto related subject on TR.

 

Just don't go to Cottman's, whatever you do.

 

The Ford Focus is known, even by Ford, to have a short life. Look in the service manual, there are no scheduled services for after 100k miles. That should tell you something right there!