Special Tool(s)

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2013 Ford F-150. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Vehicle Communication Module (VCM) and Integrated Diagnostic System (IDS) software with appropriate hardware, or equivalent scan tool

Using a scan tool to retrieve DTCs, begin with and repair all non-transmission related DTCs. Start with the U-DTCs (communication link codes) then repair transmission related DTCs.

The PCM will command a default gear to protect the engine and transmission when certain faults occur. Default or (limp-home mode) depends on the actual gear the vehicle was in when the fault occurred.

For gears 1-3, the default will be 3rd gear.
For gears 4-6, the default will be 5th gear.

The default gear is held until the vehicle is placed in reverse, park or the vehicle is restarted. After these action(s) the vehicle will default to 3rd gear.