My 2013 Transit started randomly going into limp mode. All fluids are full, it's not overheating, check engine light comes on, loss of power even though engines revs high. If I pull over and shut it off, wait a few minutes and start it, the CEL is off and it resumes driving as normal. Had it checked and came up with the codes P0734 and P0978. Before the last time it did it I checked the trans fluid(hot) and the level was perfect, then a few minutes later it was way above the max line. Can somebody give me some direction to go in?

 

The torque converter is draining back when it should not.That is why the level jumps up.

The problem with shift solenoid C needs to be found and corrected.Evidently when that solenoid is required to operate it is coming up with a problem. To prevent trans damage the system goes into limp mode for self preservation. Turning the key off allows the system , in this case, to reset until solenoid "C" is required to operate again..

 

Thanks Hanky. So is this a transmission shop kind of fix or do I have to go to the Ford dealer?

 

Those are 2 of the choices.
Not knowing your experience or mechanical background, there could be a third option, but only you know if you would like to see if you could check and verify just where the problem lies.It would consist of dropping the pan or side cover and checking the solenoid, the wiring and connections.. Then you might need to obtain a solenoid . No big problem to change it., problem is getting to it. You would also need to replace the converter anti drain back valve...
The miles on the trans could put you in the corner where a push to rebuild the trans will come up..
Suggest you try to get some estimates before deciding.. What do you think ?

 

It's my son's work van, bought used, now has 93,000 miles. I WAS a mechanic way back in the 80's, but physically not able to do it now, nor would I want to.
Five questions...
1) Is it safe to drive, or are we chancing transmission damage?
2) Would a rebuild or a replacement be the way to go, if necessary?
3) Do you have a ballpark on what that would cost?
4) Would a used tranny be a viable option?
5) Do you know if it's the same transmission used in the Focus with a 2.0 4I ?
Sorry to be so inquisitive, but he's frustrated and needs it to be able to run his new business. He hates that I've been carrying him for 7 months and he's about to give up and go work for someone else, which he hates.

 

Starting a business can really eat up funds fast, so we have some idea of the $$$ situation.
The salvage yard move would be the less costly ,,,, but always has that big question of for how long.
The rebuild option depends on who does the job and they reuse old parts that pass,
Another option is a remanufactured trans , which has all the updates and best warranty, but is the more expensive option.
Of course we only want to do this job once and forget it, but that darn dollar keeps getting in the way.
Suggest you obtain some estimates and that will help make a good decision.