2020 Transmission Issues.

[Fizzy]

It only helps temporarily. Then it comes right back. I finally took mine in after having issues for almost a year. TSB 25-2132 explains exactly the symptoms I have. They still have my Expedition, as I only took it in 3 days ago.

Mine goes in later in July. They said about 3 days (including water pump replacement).

I started a thread here asking about peoples experiences post-rebuild (recent ones - with the redesigned parts). Seems like a mixed bag, but most of the negative outcomes were from 2024 or 2023 rebuilds, which makes me suspicious if the redesigned parts were used.

Anyway - let us know how it works out.

 

[ROBERT BONNER]

I check the trans temp and its around 235 degrees. I pulled over to cool it and call the dealership. They said to bring it to them if it's safe to drive (my discretion?). I start back up the interstate and the tranny didn't go over 214 the entire way. They look at it and say there's no issues. Fast forward to June 13 and we head out for our next camping trip. Same thing, but only 30 minutes into our trip. Return to dealership. Same comments, same results: we can't find anything wrong.

I've had 3 friends with various year 10 speeds experience the same thing after a transmission fluid service. In all 3 of those cases, the trans was over filled during the service. At some point the fluid reaches a frothing temp, froths up and causes various faults and drivability issues. The fluid should always be replaced after an over temperature situation whether it's due to an over fill or something else. Normally, the dealers will only admit to an overfill if they are called out specifically on an overfill with a demand to drain and refill correctly. Note that checking the level is no longer trivial. You'll find many references to the checking process in this forum; suffice it to say if you don't have a 4 poster, asbestos gloves and an hour to spare you will be looking for an urban legend inspired shortcut...and that's when the overfills happen. I installed B&M dipsticks on both of mine to make checking easier.

 

[Mr Big]

The dealer told me that my tranny was not generating the necessary codes to warrant a rebuild or replace.
So, when I got it back, I turned off TCM learning. My tranny has been good since then. It shifts halfway between normal and sport, but does not hold the gears like sport mode does. Also, after a recent recall, my transmission temp runs around 185 degrees, down from 212.

 

[dr2024]

I've had 3 friends with various year 10 speeds experience the same thing after a transmission fluid service. In all 3 of those cases, the trans was over filled during the service. At some point the fluid reaches a frothing temp, froths up and causes various faults and drivability issues. The fluid should always be replaced after an over temperature situation whether it's due to an over fill or something else. Normally, the dealers will only admit to an overfill if they are called out specifically on an overfill with a demand to drain and refill correctly. Note that checking the level is no longer trivial. You'll find many references to the checking process in this forum; suffice it to say if you don't have a 4 poster, asbestos gloves and an hour to spare you will be looking for an urban legend inspired shortcut...and that's when the overfills happen. I installed B&M dipsticks on both of mine to make checking easier.

Critically useful information, thanks!

With the B&M dipsticks, did you need to calibrate them after installing?

Eg., 1) ensure correct level with original dipstick (at operating temperature, etc.), 2) install new dipstick without changing fluid level, 3) note where the fluid level gauges on the new B&M dipstick?

 

[D__J]

OMG reading these problems stirs up my PTSD. My 2020 Expedition XLT's transmission, with 65K miles, died while working in Arizona, my dealership is in PA, had ESP. They said no worries, Ford will replace it for free under warranty in 4 to 5 weeks. They suggested I fly home and fly back out when fixed. About 100 trucks with transmission issues ahead of mine. Wow! This was back in 12/2023.

Truck was worthless, couldn't trade it in for a GM or Toyota with a broken transmission. Bought a 2023 instead of waiting. My next truck won't be a Ford.

 

[ROBERT BONNER]

Critically useful information, thanks!

With the B&M dipsticks, did you need to calibrate them after installing?

Eg., 1) ensure correct level with original dipstick (at operating temperature, etc.), 2) install new dipstick without changing fluid level, 3) note where the fluid level gauges on the new B&M dipstick?

Ah, the fun part. I replicated the dipstick routing that I chose outside of the vehicle, (because the flexibility and length of line issues between the check cable and the tube, preclude just holding the new stick straight) then calibrated the B&M stick to the correct level on my OEM mini dipstick through direct measurement. As it turns out my '20 Expedition uses one of the lower levels on the mini dip stick, leaving the "full" on the B&M stick less than 1/4" from the bottom of the stick. This process was "cold" (didn't require a fire suit and asbestos gloves, or running the truck with me under it) and doesn't make any assumption about the current level being correct or not.

 

[Mr Big]

Ah, the fun part. I replicated the dipstick routing that I chose outside of the vehicle, (because the flexibility and length of line issues between the check cable and the tube, preclude just holding the new stick straight) then calibrated the B&M stick to the correct level on my OEM mini dipstick through direct measurement. As it turns out my '20 Expedition uses one of the lower levels on the mini dip stick, leaving the "full" on the B&M stick less than 1/4" from the bottom of the stick. This process was "cold" (didn't require a fire suit and asbestos gloves, or running the truck with me under it) and doesn't make any assumption about the current level being correct or not.

I would not recommend an aftermarket dip stick. There are different size pans too.

 

[ROBERT BONNER]

I would not recommend an aftermarket dip stick. There are different size pans too.

Ford 10R80 fluid check procedure

1. Warm the Transmission: Drive the vehicle until the transmission fluid reaches the operating temperature range of 206-215°F.
   
   
2. Prepare the Vehicle: Park on a level surface and ensure the engine is running in park.
   
   
3. Locate the Dipstick: The 10R80 transmission has a screw-in dipstick located on the passenger side of the transmission case.
   
   
4. Remove the Dipstick: Use a 19mm wrench to remove the dipstick plug. Be cautious as the area around the catalytic converter can be very hot (500-800 F, located ~3" away)
   
   
5. Check the Fluid Level: Remove the dipstick, wipe it clean, and reinsert it fully. Then, remove it again to check the level against the markings (numbered or lettered).
   
   
6. Adjust if Necessary: If the fluid level is low, add the correct Merkon ULV fluid (Motorcraft part number XT-12-QLV) until it reaches the specified level.
   
   
7. Reinstall: Reinstall the dipstick and plug, ensuring they are properly tightened.

Call me a wimp. I wouldn't try this procedure with your hands, let alone mine, LOL.

4 alternatives:

1. Pay someone else to do it....the national track record of success is not good with this one, because most are following 2 below
2. "guess" at a cold level, lots of urban legend information on this one on the web
3. Never check it
4. Buy an aftermarket dipstick

I chose (4) twice. Unless you're comfortable with 1-3 above....