If anyone reads this post. I have an 2002 Escape with 120,000 that had the transmission shudder. The transmission finally failed even with regular maintainence. The cost was $2,800. I would trade the vehicle immediately. I don't think it's worth fixing if you have high miles. I believe it's poor engineering on Fords part. I still have a Montero SR 1993 with 265,000 and it still running great.

 

Matt
As you can see from the post previous, I have the exact same issue.
I will be calling ford customer service on monday.
After owning three fords in 7 years, I finally have learned...no more!

If you want the phone number, email me off line.

Bob

 

Well, the the rebuilt tranny has a warning light with only a few thousand miles on it. I was hoping to save some money by just replacing parts. Ford gave two choices: Replace parts and labor for $2,900 or a rebuilt unit for $3,600. I optioned for the cheaper deal thinking that everything would be kay.

However, the dealer there said that they didn't know of any issues with this trannsmission. I can finally say the internet is finally paying off. Thanks for all the info and stay tuned.

Matt

 

The CD4E has had problems for 10 years. The Mazda 626 had most of the problems. Then the 2001/2002 Escapes seemed to have more problems (thus the tranny reflash) but that doesn't seem to fix it. I've seen people with 2005 Escapes have the failure. It's sporadic but when it's yours that fails, it's a $3k repair.

http://www.estreetjournal.com/Mazda.htm