I'm having some issues with my 03 escape. They seem to be most noticeable now that its so cold out. The transmission has a distinct whine sound (almost sounds like a supercharger) that seems to get quieter when its warmed up. During the first 10 minutes of driving it will sometimes drop out of gear if youre not giving it constant gas (if youre coasting down hill it may drop out, but not if it's under load). The last week or so its started hunting around gears 2-4 when it's warmed up. Its my wifes car so Im only relaying what she tells me, but it sounds like it only starts doing that towards the end of her commute, so once its warmed up. I'll be checking the fluid this weekend, but the level and color was fine when I checked it a month or 2 ago. Has anyone experienced this before?

 

When was the trans fluid and filter serviced last?

 

Not since Ive owned it, which has been roughly 20,000kms. I checked it like 6 months ago and it looked ok, today though it was darker and smelt burnt. I'm going to change it tomorrow and see if anything improves.

 

Unfortunately, when the fluid appears burnt, the damage has already been done. You might buy some time with a fluid and filter change, but plan on having some trans work up the road.