Car Won’t Go Forward, Transmission Screen Flashing: Ford Escape Troubleshooting Guide

1. Check the Transmission Fluid Level

The first thing you should do is check the transmission fluid level. If the fluid level is low, it can cause the transmission to slip, which can prevent the car from going forward. To check the transmission fluid level, follow these steps:

• Park the car on a level surface.
• Turn off the engine.
• Open the hood and locate the transmission dipstick.
• Pull out the dipstick and wipe it clean with a rag.
• Reinsert the dipstick and pull it out again.
• The fluid level should be between the “min” and “max” marks on the dipstick.

If the fluid level is low, you can add more fluid through the dipstick tube. Be sure to use the type of fluid specified in your owner’s manual.

2. Check the Transmission Filter

If the transmission fluid level is OK, the next thing you should check is the transmission filter. A dirty or clogged filter can restrict the flow of fluid, which can also cause the transmission to slip. To check the transmission filter, follow these steps:

• Park the car on a level surface.
• Turn off the engine.
• Open the hood and locate the transmission filter.
• Remove the filter and inspect it for dirt or debris.
• If the filter is dirty, replace it with a new one.

3. Check the Transmission Solenoids

The transmission solenoids are responsible for controlling the flow of fluid through the transmission. If a solenoid is malfunctioning, it can cause the transmission to slip. To check the transmission solenoids, you will need a voltmeter.

• Park the car on a level surface.
• Turn off the engine.
• Open the hood and locate the transmission solenoids. The solenoids are usually located on the side of the transmission.
• Disconnect the electrical connector from one of the solenoids.
• Set the voltmeter to the ohms setting.
• Touch the voltmeter probes to the terminals of the solenoid.
• The voltmeter should read between 10 and 20 ohms.
• If the voltmeter reading is not within the specified range, the solenoid is malfunctioning and needs to be replaced.

4. Check the Transmission Control Module

The transmission control module (TCM) is the computer that controls the transmission. If the TCM is malfunctioning, it can cause the transmission to slip. To check the TCM, you will need a scan tool.

• Park the car on a level surface.
• Turn off the engine.
• Connect the scan tool to the OBD-II port under the dash.
• Turn on the scan tool and select the “Transmission” menu.
• The scan tool will display a list of diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs). If there are any DTCs related to the transmission, the TCM may be malfunctioning.

5. Have the Transmission Inspected by a Mechanic

If you have checked all of the above items and you are still having problems with your transmission, you should have it inspected by a mechanic. A mechanic can diagnose the problem and recommend the best course of action.

Additional Tips

• If your car is still under warranty, take it to the dealership for repairs.
• If your car is not under warranty, you can find a reputable mechanic by asking for recommendations from friends or family.
• Be sure to get a written estimate for any repairs before you authorize them.
• If you are not comfortable performing any of the above troubleshooting steps yourself, you can have them done by a mechanic.

Conclusion

If your Ford Escape won’t go forward and the transmission screen is flashing, it is likely that there is a problem with the transmission. By following the troubleshooting steps outlined in this guide, you can help to identify the problem and get your car back on the road.