60,000km Update - Trans & Water Pump

[Fizzy]

Got a recall notice about the PCM reprogramming. Whilst it was in I had them check the transmission and why the coolant needs topping off before each 5 month service.

For the transmission, it was being clunky between 3 and 5, and sometimes up around 7. It would also sometimes lurch from P to R or D. Tech had a look and said he'll order the parts for a rebuild, including the redesigned CDF drum. Having watched a bunch of trans techs tearing down and putting back together transmissions, it's incredibly complicated. Trans techs are a different breed. I worry that a regular Ford shop tech isn't skilled/experienced enough to do this work, but I guess it is what it is. They probably do a lot of them.

As for the coolant, I've noticed that before each 6 month service, the coolant would be at, or just below, the MIN mark. I'd have to top it up myself with the red coolant from Ford. Tech had a look and couldn't find any leaks, but said the water pump is "sweating", so he's replacing that. I'm not convinced, but he didn't find any leaks. I have noticed when it's sub-zero out that the exhaust is quite smoky. My BIL has a similar age Navigator, and when we start them up at the same time in winter ours is smokier for longer.

Not really sure where I'm going with this. Happy it's being looked at under the original powertrain warranty and ESP, but also unhappy it needs to be done at all.

 

[gerard143]

Ya I have no trust in any tech besides myself generally so I feel your pain. It sucks all this big problems on newer vehicles. Debating buying a used expedition but idk. Maybe if I do buy (looking at 2019-2021 models) I should get a 2023 tranny out of junkyard as a spare (since it has updated design) just in case.

Also doubt your water pump is “sweating”.

 

[Fizzy]

Ya I have no trust in any tech besides myself generally so I feel your pain. It sucks all this big problems on newer vehicles. Debating buying a used expedition but idk. Maybe if I do buy (looking at 2019-2021 models) I should get a 2023 tranny out of junkyard as a spare (since it has updated design) just in case.

Also doubt your water pump is “sweating”.

It is what it is I guess. As you say it’s all newer vehicles. It’s getting where extended warranty is a must buy option on a new vehicle.

 

[Calidad]

There were coolant hose snap in connections that Ford updated at some point the prior fittings were weeping coolant. I’m not sure when they did that. My September 2019 build hasn’t had any coolant loss 80,000 miles so far. It also got the Aluminum oil pan which I was very surprised and happy to see.
I did get the faulty coolant thermostat.

Transmission has been wonky at times and has dropped into a neutral state a couple of times while driving to/from my cabin I can tell when its going to do it and basically just let off the throttle till it sorts its self has happened maybe 5 times in the last 30,000 miles. Its never occurred in tow mode while towing. I did report it and had my dealer check it. (My dealer is full of chit)) But its documented in my ford history I have till 2027 on my warranty soooo…. We’ll see how that goes.

I don’t like the current options packages in the 2025’s.. My Platinum has all the good stuff and I use it. 2025 Platinum gets the basic dummy rear end which is LAME! I have used the rear locker multiple times on these big SUVs the rear locker is literally the difference between getting easily unstuck and needing a tow. Completely unacceptable oversight by Ford. The “only” trim that gets it is the Tremor which doesn’t get CCD system and appears to have 300lbs less on the max tow rating due to the “off Road” suspension setup.

I’ll be keeping my “fully” loaded Platinum till Ford offers the locking rear differential option in other trims.

 

[Going_Going_Gone]

Quote: "I don’t like the current options packages in the 2025’s.. My Platinum has all the good stuff and I use it."
Funny you should mention that. We could buy something new, but there's nothing we feel would be as comparable or dependable as what we already have (knock on wood); a 2019 Limited 301A with that year's Special Edition package. It was basically the 302A package with different wheels or a Stealth package w/o the red stitching, black side view mirrors, grill & various trim pieces, and hood lettering (for around $3,000 less). The package included more equipment than is even available on the current Platinums. We've used all of our "good stuff" except the self-parking feature.

 

[Fizzy]

There were coolant hose snap in connections that Ford updated at some point the prior fittings were weeping coolant.

In all fairness my dealership are pretty decent. I'm certain the tech would have checked this before recommending the water pump replacement.