Hey there. I have a 2002 Ford escape with 200,000+ miles....


Hey there. I have a 2002 Ford escape with 200,000+ miles. Last night the O/D OFF light came on and continued to flash for a brief drive to the corner grocery store. The [engine](/topics-engine-ford/) revved a lot each time I press...

Hey there. I have a 2002 Ford escape with 200,000+ miles. Last night the O/D OFF light came on and continued to flash for a brief drive to the corner grocery store. The [engine](/topics-engine-ford/) revved a lot each time I pressed on the accelerator and the car only moved forward slowly and in brief bursts. After stopping, I noticed some oil leaking out of the front of the car just behind the fender. Looking with the hood open showed that the oil wasn't coming from anywhere at the top of the engine and was maybe near the bottom of the car. I've read that it's maybe [transmission](/topics-transmission-ford/), solenoid, or speed sensor issues. Do you have any thoughts? Mechanic's Assistant: Have you ever replaced the gaskets? Maybe the hoses? I have not. Given the aging it's entirely possible that a gasket or hose has failed. Do you know what they would be connected to? Mechanic's Assistant: Are you fixing your Escape yourself? What have you tried so far? I have only done a brief look at the car and taken a few photos. I haven't personally done anything to it. Sadly, I live in an apartment, so I don't have a personal garage or tools to look into the problem. Mechanic's Assistant: Anything else you want the Mechanic to know before I connect you? I think that's a good start. I don't have much more to add.

Automotive Expert
Hi! Welcome to JustAnswer. Thank you for contacting us for assistance with your vehicle. I'm Ron. I will be happy to assist you with your question. May I ask to whom I have the pleasure of speaking with today?

Hey there Ron, my name is\*\*\*\*\*'m the driver of the 2002 Ford Escape with the O/D Off light issue.
Automotive Expert
Hi David. Nice to see you today! I'm sorry to hear you are having this problem. I know this can be frustrating. David does your Escape have the 4-cylinder or 6-cylinder engine?

I think it's a 4-cyclinder. I'll head down to the car and have a look. I'll use my phone to text and keep you informed.
Automotive Expert
Sounds good, David. Thank-you.

In the car now. It says V6, would that mean 6 cylinder?
Automotive Expert
Yes, this would be the 6-cylinder. Please give me one moment to type out some information for you. Sit tight one minute... I'll be right back!

No worries. I'll pop the hood. Can you receive pictures if I send them?
Automotive Expert
Thanks for holding, David. From what you are describing here, it sounds like this will be the case of a transmission fluid leak. The low fluid level will produce the shifting symptoms you describe. This can be a leak in a transmission fluid line, or possibly even a failed transmission fluid pan gasket. Unfortunately, at this point, the vehicle would need to be put into a lift so these items can be inspected. If nothing stands out, the area of the leak would need to be cleaned with the use of some throttle cleaner. Then, leak dye will need to be added to the transmission fluid. The vehicle is then driven a few miles. Once the shifting symptoms start again, put the vehicle back on a lift, and using a UV lamp, the dye will leave a trail back to the source of the leak. The leak can then be repaired. This will not be a speed sensor issue, as the sensor will not cause the shifting symptoms. If this were a solenoid issue, it would not shift between certain gears. If this were a failed transmission, you would get no response at all. Like I say, it sounds like a fluid leak issue.

I I think we're on the right track. Based on where I parked last night, it looks like it continued to leak. I see a dipstick for my trans fluid. Does checking that work the same way as checking regular oil?
Automotive Expert
Very similar. Turn the engine on and let it warm up. With your foot on the [brake](/topics-brake-ford/), shift through all the gears. Put the vehicle in park and leave it running. Now, check it like you would engine oil.

Yeah, the trans fluid line hardly registers. Plus a nice new drip came when I did all those steps. Sounds like a trans line leak.I'll go to a mech with all this information in hand. I really appreciate all the help.
Automotive Expert
You're welcome, David! Glad I could be of some help today! I hope everything works out well for you! If there are any additional questions on this issue that should arise, please feel free to reply and ask! Have a great day! Thank you for choosing Just Answer for your questions!

Hey it was awesome. Appreciate the help
Automotive Expert
Glad to be of some help, David!

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