Q: Transmission not going into reverse.

asked by on December 17, 2015

Transmission only goes into forward and does not go into reverse. I also have an issue with a noisy cam chain on start up that I want to fix.

Not able to change gears Inspection $94.99 - $114.99 Get a Quote

Hi there. The two problems you just described are two of the most common issues that plagued the Ford Explorer since the 2000 model year. The first problem of transmission is caused by the transmission case leaking internal pressure and the overrunning clutch breaks causing no reverse. The only fix is to replace the transmission assembly with a remanufactured transmission. The second issue of engine cam chain noise is that the timing chain guides have fallen apart. The fix is to replace all the timing chain guides with a new style. This is a major engine repair that takes special tools to do properly. Another issue is that sometimes the broken pieces fall into the oil pan and the engine will have to be removed to do a complete repair. Sometimes it costs less to have a remanufactured engine put in, instead of trying to repair the noise in these engines. Schedule an inspection of your transmission before making any decisions

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

Sudden loss of acceleration when driving
Your car is equipped with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). The CVT has sensors to keep if from overheating and dropping to a low fluid level. When the transmission detects an issue, it will go into limp home mode to...
What is the Front Passenger Sensing system?
While your car has both a driver and passenger front air bag, the passenger side air bag isn’t always active. The Front Passenger Sensing system is designed to turn the passenger front air bag on or off based on several...
Brake lights not working.
The first and easiest thing to check would be the fuse. If that's ok, check to see if the switch on the brake pedal itself hasn't fallen off. If that doesn't solve your problem, I recommend having a mechanic, such...
Warning light flashes and then turns off after driving
Hello. Every warning light is accompanied with a definition which can be found in your owners manual. Once we determine which system is being affected, we can start from there. 5 miles ins't very far which leads me to believe...
Blower or heat and air conditioner are not working? Relay fuse
The blower fuse is a 40 amp fuse located in the engine compartment's fuse box. The blower blower is controlled by the blower controller/resistor next to blower in the housing. The A/C control head controls the resistor controller for the...
Key on, no start and no dash lights. 1996 Ford Explorer
Hello. This is likely a loose terminal or corroded battery connection. Make sure the cables and terminals are clean (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/how-to-clean-battery-terminal-connections-on-a-car). Also check the ground in the engine compartment. It sounds simple, but something like this can easily cut all power...
No start
Hello. A no start condition can be caused by many things. If you have verified that spark and fuel pressure are good then the next thing I would look at is the engine management system. If the engine is getting...
My fog lights aren't working.
The fog lights are controlled through the smart junction box in the right kick panel. The switch signals the box to ground the fog light relay in the engine compartment fuse relay box. The number 58 fuse powers the relay...
Car radio wont turn on.
Hi there. Sometimes when major mechanical work is completed, a mechanic will forget to reattach some accessory switches; assuming they were removed. It's also possible that during the service, a fuse that powers the radio or electrical relay was damaged...

Related articles

A Buyer’s Guide to the 2012 Ford Mustang
The The Ford Mustang has been an iconic vehicle for half a century, and its latest styling and updates only make it more attractive and more popular with American drivers. While its exterior may not be quite as eye-catching as...
3 Essential Things to Know About Your Car’s Gear Shifter
The The gear shifter allows the vehicle to be put into different gears on a manual transmission. In an automatic transmission, the gear shifter is known as a gear selector. The gear shifter is normally located between the two front...
Is a Transmission Flush Necessary for My Vehicle?
A transmission flush is necessary for an automatic transmission’s longevity. It also improves fuel economy and helps validate warranties.