Shift Point Road Test

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Ford RV Cutaway, 2003 Ford Econoline, 2003 Ford E550 Super Duty, 2003 Ford E450 Super Duty, and 2003 Ford Cutaway. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE: Always drive the vehicle in a safe manner according to driving conditions and obey all traffic laws.

This test verifies that the shift control system is operating correctly.

Bring engine and transmission up to normal operating temperature.
Operate the vehicle with the transmission range selector lever in (D) range.
Apply minimum throttle and observe the speeds at which the upshift occurs and the torque converter engages.
With the vehicle in OVERDRIVE (fourth gear), depress the transmission control switch. The transmission should downshift to third gear. Remove foot from accelerator pedal; engine braking should occur.
Press accelerator pedal to floor (wide-open throttle). Transmission should shift from third to second gear or third to first, depending on vehicle speed. Torque converter clutch should disengage and then reapply.
With vehicle (D) range above 80 km/h (50 mph) and less than half throttle, move the transmission range selector lever from (D) range to MANUAL 2 range and remove foot from accelerator pedal. The transmission should immediately downshift into second gear. With the vehicle remaining in MANUAL 2 range, move transmission range selector lever into MANUAL 1 range. Transmission should downshift into first gear at speeds BELOW 48-56 km/h (30-35 mph).
If transmission fails to upshift/downshift or torque converter clutch does not apply and release, refer to DIAGNOSIS BY SYMPTOM for concern diagnosis.