[RHH]

Hello - I have a 2014 Ford Explorer XLT with the 3.5L (not the turbo or eco-boost) - 168k miles. Been a great car with practically zero issues. I'm having an issue with what seems to be a "miss" when moving at lower speeds or uphill. Practically non-existent at higher speeds. We initially ruled out the transmission, but the RPM hand does bounce a bit when it happens. I spoke to someone I knew who owns a transmission shop and he initially said if <40 MPH could be the clutches slipping and that higher speeds it was typically the torque converter. Either way was quoted under $4K to rebuild the transmission. However, my car had codes that lead us to replacing the fuel pressure regulator. It helped tremendously, but didn't completely fix it. We've since found and replaced a PCV Valve that was stuck in the open position as well as replaced all spark plugs. The PCV valve was stuck open and left a mess with oil and gunk inside. After everything was put back together we now have a knock. Not sure if a spark plug isn't seated potentially, but have also read the gunk could cause a knock. We're next going to run an intake cleaner through, complete oil change (for any extra gunk) and also drain the gas to ensure no bad gas or water in the gas. Anyone experienced anything similar? We also cleared the codes after the fuel pressure regulator replacement and to date, no new codes. TIA!

 

[Keith B]

Had a similar problem with my 2015 Limited. Only at low speeds though. Turned out it was my torque converter. My mechanic added an additive (don't know what it was) to my tranny and it solved my problem. He said though that this was just a band-aid. No solutions on when or if this would ever be resolved. Could last for years or go out next week. It's been about 2 months now and no problems re-emerged so far. Replacing the converter he said will be in the range of 3K...