Selector Lever Linkage Check
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2011 Lincoln MKZ and 2011 Ford Fusion. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
Hydraulic leakage at the manual control valve can cause delay in engagements and/or slipping while operating if the selector lever linkage is not correctly adjusted. Refer to AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE/TRANSMISSION EXTERNAL CONTROLS - AISIN AW21/6F35 -- FUSION, MILAN & MKZ (EXCEPT HYBRID) article for selector lever linkage adjustment.