The Ford F350 4-speed 4R100 and 5-speed 5R110W and 6-speed 6R140 were able to handle the monster torque of the 6.0L and 7.3L Power Stroke Diesel engine, while providing impressive fuel economy. But they aren’t without their problems though, so let’s look at some of the most common Ford F350 Super Duty transmission problems, and figure out what you can do about them.
What Transmission Do I Have?
Ford F350 Transmission Models
1999-2004 Ford F350 Super-Duty: 4R100 Transmission
2003-2010 Ford F350 Super-Duty: 5R110W Transmission
2011+ Ford F350 Super-Duty: 6R140 Transmission
F350 Transmission Replacement Cost Estimate
These are the most current prices for a remanufactured replacement Ford F350 transmission.
Replacement F350 Transmission:
| Transmission | Street Smart Transmission |
|---|---|
| 4R100 / E4OD | 2226 |
| 5R110W | 2432 |
| 6R140 | 3864 |
What are the DTC codes related to Ford F-350 transmission problems?
| Trouble Code | Description |
|---|---|
| P0700 | Transmission Control System (MIL Request) |
| P0703 | Torque Converter/Brake Switch B Circuit |
| P0704 | Clutch Switch In put Circuit Malfunction |
| P0705 | Transmission Range Sensor Circuit Malfunction (PRNDL Input) |
| P0706 | Transmission Range Sensor Circuit Range/Performance |
| P0707 | Transmission Range Sensor Circuit Low Input |
| P0708 | Transmission Range Sensor Circuit High Input |
| P0711 | Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor Circuit Range/Performance |
| P0712 | Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor Circuit Low Input |
| P0713 | Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor Circuit High Input |
| P0714 | Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor Circuit Intermittent P0715 |
| P0715 | Input/Turbine Speed Sensor Circuit |
| P0717 | Input/Turbine Speed Sensor Circuit No Signal |
| P0718 | Input/Turbine Speed Sensor Circuit Intermittent |
| P0730 | Incorrect Gear Ratio |
| P0731 | Gear 1 Incorrect Ratio |
| P0732 | Gear 2 Incorrect Ratio |
| P0733 | Gear 3 Incorrect Ratio |
| P0734 | Gear 4 Incorrect Ratio |
| P0735 | Gear 5 Incorrect Ratio |
| P0740 | Torque Converter Clutch Circuit Malfunction |
| P0741 | Torque Converter Clutch Circuit |
| P0742 | Torque Converter Clutch Circuit Stuck On |
| P0743 | Torque Converter Clutch Circuit Electrical |
| P0744 | Torque Converter Clutch Circuit Intermittent |
| P0745 | Pressure Control Solenoid 'A' |
| P0748 | Pressure Control Solenoid 'A' Electrical |
| P0750 | Shift Solenoid 'A' |
| P0751 | Shift Solenoid 'A' Performance or Stuck Off |
| P0752 | Shift Solenoid 'A' Stuck On |
| P0753 | Shift Solenoid 'A' Electrical |
| P0755 | Shift Solenoid 'B' |
| P0756 | Shift Solenoid 'B' Performance or Stuck Off |
| P0757 | Shift Solenoid 'B' Stuck On |
| P0758 | Shift Solenoid 'B' Electrical |
| P0760 | Shift Solenoid 'C' |
| P0761 | Shift Solenoid 'C' Performance or Stuck Off |
| P0762 | Shift Solenoid 'C' Stuck On |
| P0763 | Shift Solenoid 'C' Electrical |
| P0765 | Shift Solenoid 'D' |
| P0766 | Shift Solenoid 'D' Performance or Stuck Off |
| P0767 | Shift Solenoid 'D' Stuck On |
| P0768 | Shift Solenoid 'D' Electrical |
| P0770 | Shift Solenoid 'E' |
| P0771 | Shift Solenoid 'E' Performance or Stuck Off |
| P0772 | Shift Solenoid 'E' Stuck On |
| P0773 | Shift Solenoid 'E' Electrical |
| P0775 | Pressure Control Solenoid 'B' |
| P0791 | Intermediate Shaft Speed Sensor Circuit |
| P0792 | Intermediate Shaft Speed Sensor Circuit Range/Performance |
| P0794 | Intermediate Shaft Speed Sensor Circuit Intermittent |
| P0795 | Pressure Control Solenoid 'C' |
| P0797 | Pressure Control Solenoid 'C' Stuck On |
| P0798 | Pressure Control Solenoid 'C' Electrical |
| P0960 | Pressure Control Solenoid A Control Circuit/Open |
| P0962 | Pressure Control Solenoid A Control Circuit Low |
| P0963 | Pressure Control Solenoid A Control Circuit High |
| P0973 | Shift Solenoid A Control Circuit Low |
| P0974 | Shift Solenoid A Control Circuit High |
| P0976 | Shift Solenoid B Control Circuit Low |
| P0977 | Shift Solenoid B Control Circuit High |
| P0979 | Shift Solenoid C Control Circuit Low |
| P0980 | Shift Solenoid C Control Circuit High |
| P0982 | Shift Solenoid D Control Circuit Low |
| P0983 | Shift Solenoid D Control Circuit High |
| P0985 | Shift Solenoid E Control Circuit Low |
| P0986 | Shift Solenoid E Control Circuit High |
| P1762 | Nissan DTC: Direct Clutch Solenoid Valve |
Tow/Haul Light Flashing – A flashing Tow Haul light on the Ford F-250 Super Duty acts as sort of a warning light to let you know that something is wrong with your 5R110W transmission. It can be as simple as a failed temperature sensor, or the valve body could be cracked in half. But you won’t know unless there was a DTC stored in the computer.
Ford F350 Transmission Technical Service Bulletins | TSBs
TSB 02–21–1 – 4R100 Transmission – Torque converter access plug may become dislodged
1989 – 1997 Ford Super Duty – 1989 – 1998 Ford F250 – 1989 – 1998 Ford F53 Motorhome – 1989 – 2003 Ford E-Series – 1989 – 2003 Ford F150 – 1999 – 2003 Ford Super Duty – 2000 – 2003 Ford Excursion – 1998 – 2003 Lincoln Navigator – 2002 – 2003 Lincoln Blackwood
Problem – Due to extreme load and material shrinkage, the torque converter external access dust plug may fall out during severe duty use.
Solution – Install new plug (part number E9TZ-7N171-A) with a 1/4 inch bead of silicone sealant around the plug.
TSB 98-20-9 – Ticking noise on initial startup when the selector is in park or neutral – 4R100 Transmission
1998 Ford Econoline – 1998 Ford Expedition – 1998 Ford F150 – 1998 Ford F250 – 1998 Lincoln Navigator – 1999 Ford F250 HD – 1999 Ford F350 – 1999 Ford Super Duty
Problem – A ticking noise may be hard when the vehicle is first started and the shifter is in the ‘P’ or ‘N’ position. In some cases, the noise may also be heard after the vehicle has warmed up. This can be caused by the overdrive clutch steel separator plate(s) hitting against the case internal spline.
Solution – Install new OD friction plates and accumulator assembly
TSB 08-26-4 – 5R110W transmission failure in cold weather
2008 – 2009 Ford E-Series – 2008 – 2009 Ford Super Duty
Problem – Vehicles built between 5/18/2007-11/1/2008, which are driven in cold climates (i.e. 35°F and below) may experience complete transmission failure due to the lack of an in-line transmission filter, which causes a lack of lubrication to the low/reverse one way clutch.
Solution – Rebuild or install a remanufactured 5R110W transmission with an updated transmission pump and external in-line transmission filter.
05-25-4: 2005-2006 Ford Super Duty 6.0L – Some models equipped with the 5R110W transmission may experience erratic shifting in Tow/Haul Mode, a late 5-6 shift in Tow/Haul Mode, a harsh 3-2 engine braking downshift, and potentially a harsh 5-2 downshift.
Solution: The powertrain control module (PCM) needs to be reprogrammed (WDS release B39.15 and higher or B40.2 and higher).
TSB 11-7-10 – 2-3 shift flare with P0733 DTC and or delayed reverse engagement – 6R140 transmission
2011 Ford Super Duty 6.7L Powerstroke \ 6R140 transmission
Problem – On vehicles built on or before 4/11/2011, drivers may experience a 2-3 shift flare (unusual RPM fluctuation), along with a P0733 diagnostic trouble code, and possibly a reverse gear engagement delay.
Solution – Replace the three normally high solenoids
TSB 16-0057 – P0751, P0730 and/or P2700 DTCs – 6R140 Torqshift 6 Transmission & 5R110W Torqshift 5 Transmission
2009 – 2016 Ford E-Series – 2009 – 2016 Ford Super Duty – 2009 Ford F53 Motorhome – 2011 – 2015 Ford F53 Motorhome – 2011 – 2015 Ford commercial stripped chassis
Problem – Vehicles built before 12/15/2015 may experience the P0751, P0730 and/or P2700 diagnostic trouble codes
Solution – Replace the coast clutch cylinder and coast one-way clutch mechanical diode assembly.
Common Problems with the F350 4R100 Transmission (1999-2004)
Poor performance with DTCs P0715, P0716 & P0717 – 4R100 Transmission
Problem – Poor engine performance and acceleration may be due to a sticking solenoid regulator valve
Solution – If the solenoid regulator valve cannot be repaired, the valve body will have to be replaced
1) Faulty Shift Solenoids
Heat and vibration are the natural enemy of car parts, and they’re the main cause of premature solenoid failure on the Ford 4R100 transmission. These little plunger mechanisms route pressurized ATF through the valve body to actuate a shift. Over time, the heat and vibration can short out the wiring on a 4R100 solenoid, leading to delayed shifts, or no shift at all.
2) Failed Forward Clutch Drum
Controlling hydraulic pressure is the key to creating a durable transmission. Unfortunately, an OE design flaw in the accumulator pistons and snap ring can cause the 4R100 forward clutch drum to fail prematurely. Leading to no forward gears, or severe slipping in 1st, 2nd, or 3rd gears. To solve this problem, each SST remanufactured 4R100 transmission gets upgraded (see: Stronger) 1-2 and 2-3 accumulator pistons, a more robust spiral-lock snap ring, and a staked retainer for the intermediate clutch.
Common Problems with the F350 5R110W Transmission (2003-2010)
The Ford 5R110W TorqShift transmission is a five-speed automatic transmission that replaced the aging 4-speed 4R100 transmission. Although it was considered to be a 5-speed automatic, it actually had a 6th overdrive ratio that allowed for an alternate shift pattern in cold weather. At temperatures below 5°F, 5th gear would be skipped in order to increase engine RPM and bring the transmission up to operating temperature. The Ford 5R110W transmission also had full electronic controls, which allowed the computer to lockup the torque converter when the 5R110W Tow/Haul Mode or PTO was in use. Some of the highlights included an integrated trailer brake control system, and the optional Torqshift 5R110W transmission which was fitted with a groundbreaking Tow/Haul Mode that minimized upshifts to keep the engine in the power band, and automatically downshifted to provide engine braking when descending a hill. The Ford 5R110W transmission could also be outfitted with a PTO to power accessories like a snowplow or external hydraulics.
1) Reverse Planetary Assembly
A common 5R110W transmission problem has to do with the low/reverse planetary gear pinions. An OE design flaw allowed the gear set pinion shafts to back themselves out of the carrier, resulting in slipping, and harsh or delayed forward/reverse gear engagement.
2) Transmission Pump
The Ford F-350 5R110W transmission transfers engine power to the wheels through hydraulic pressure. This pressure is created by the transmission pump, which has a tendency to fail prematurely. If this happens, you’ll experience a pronounced delay in forward and reverse gear engagement, or the transmission could just “slam” into gear.
Can I drive with a transmission problem?
Okay, if your truck can still make it up and down the road, you might say “It’s fine, I’ll just drive it until I can get it fixed”. But that is not always a good idea. You see, there are a lot of (very expensive) moving parts inside of a transmission, and if something isn’t right, continuing to drive with a transmission problem could damage something else.
How often does a F350 transmission need to be replaced?
The overall lifespan of a Ford F-350 transmission largely depends on how well it was maintained. Factory design flaws also factor into this equation, along with how/how hard you drive. But on average, we’ve seen the OE Ford F-350 5R110W transmission last for between 130,000-220,000 miles. A high quality replacement Ford 5R110W transmission however, can last considerably longer if all of the factory design flaws have been addressed and the vehicle has been maintained.
How are Ford F350 SD transmission issues diagnosed?
It is fairly easy to guesstimate what the root cause of your Ford F350 transmission problems might be, but you won’t truly know unless you have the right tools and experience. A good mechanic or transmission repair center will be able to connect your Ford Super Duty to a computer and find out which diagnostic trouble codes (DTC’s) have been stored. Once they know what to look for, they can perform a visual inspection to verify the problem.
How is a Ford F350 transmission replaced?
In order to replace your Ford F-350 transmission, the truck has to be lifted from the ground in order to gain access to all of the parts that will need to be unbolted. Then the transmission can be lowered to the ground (typically with a transmission jack), so the new 5R110W transmission can be installed. Once it is in place, the ECU will have to be reprogrammed to accept the new gearbox.
Recommendations for F350 transmission issues?
To save time and get back on the road faster, you can get an online quote for a replacement Ford F-350 transmission here, then find a local shop using our Find a Shop guide to install it for you.
How to Solve Ford F350 Transmission Problems
Solution A: Buy a Used Ford F350 Transmission
The quickest way to fix your transmission problems is to simply buy a used 4R100 transmission or used 5R110W transmission. These can be found at most junk yards, and they often come with a 30-90 day warranty. However, there’s no way to determine the actual condition of the internal components, so you could be spending a bunch of money to have the exact same problems. Plus, that warranty only covers the transmission if it’s defective, not the labor costs that you’ll have to pay.
Solution B: Buy a Rebuilt Ford F350 Transmission
Another option would be a rebuilt 4R100 transmission or rebuilt 5R110W transmission. A local repair shop will remove your F350 transmission, then install a bunch of new parts during the rebuild. The problem here is, the skills and experience of each transmission rebuilder will vary widely from shop to shop, so you could have problems from something that wasn’t adjusted properly. And the 1-2 year warranty might only cover you at certain transmission repair shops, in a specific geographical area.
Solution C: Buy a Remanufactured Ford F350 Transmission
What Transmission Do I Have?
Many owners depend on their Ford F-350 to make a living and get things done. Their gasoline and PowerStroke diesel engines are designed to go 100’s of thousands of miles, so it makes sense to invest in a remanufactured 4R100 transmission or remanufactured 5R110W transmission.
I have a 2003 F350 with the 5R110W automatic transmission and the truck will not move forward in drive, 1,2 or 3. The truck tries to move forward in Neutral which is very odd.
Before this issue occurred, the truck would shift hard into drive and there would be a delay in engagement, but it previously moved in drive and 1,2 and 3, but not in Neutral.
The truck moves ok in reverse and the fluid looks good and is full when up to temperature. I have checked the linkage, but can’t see and issues there.
The only code I have is for VSS (Vehicle speed sensor/ Output speed sensor) I hooked up Forscan and it showed a speed reading from the sensor in reverse. No misreading at all. No jumps in speed either. The tow/ haul light flashes in drive,but not in reverse. That is because of the speed sensor code. I don’t see how that would make the transmission act the way it is though and the tow/haul light does not always come on with a fault. Searched the web with no symptom found like this before.
2016 6.7 powerstroke f350 with the 6R140. Was driving fine then pulled out from stop light went through 1-3 shifted hard then 4th gear wouldn’t work can’t get into 5th or 6th. Changed fluid and filter only has gears 1-3 reverse works fine.
I have a 1999 F350 super duty 7.3 diesel motor Im on transmission number 5 had transmission number 4 installed 3 months ago a shaft broke completely into inside transmission this is the 2nd time I’ve been told this.no one seems to know why . What would cause this? I was driving 35 mph and haven’t pulled anything with transmission number 4 when it broke.
I bought a used 91 ford F350 dually with a 7.5 engine believe I have the E40D trans rwheel drive it will only go in reverse and not drive. And when in reverse it tries to move but feels like the brake is stuck
My clulch I’s stuck down
I changed the filer and put everything together and it won’t go into reverse and it did prior to changing filter
I got f350 1999 international 7.3 n right now I got 2nd ,low, n drive only when I get my rpms higher then I drive ingage but if I slow down to much no drive n reverse is absent to a point of never found those are the gears only I have
My 03 F-350 doesn’t back up at all!! Even in neutral in will not roll back, And when it’s in reverse position on the dash it lurks forward, and yes I have manually got under the truck undid the linkage and put it in reverse. I have forward gears but after it warms up it starts to slip.
Same problem here. Did you figure out the solution
I have 2017 f250 at 182 k miles after three service s done to the transmission as I use it commercial to haul campers and a loud bang and lost all 4/5/6 and then reverse be quit also I asked Ford to check this out to see why this failure happened but since it was out of warranty I got you need a new transmission after servicing this at 40 k 75 k and 130 k like to know if anyone else has had a transmission fail like this
I have an 02 f 350 and pretty sure its toasted but I’m pretty sure its a 6 speed automatic but I cant find anywhere saying that that year had anything more than a 4 speed. I can pull down the shifter in first and it goes thru 2 gears put in second and goes thru 2 gears and drive goes thru 2 gears. But I need to know what’s the deal and how to fix it
2011 Ford F-350 with 6r140 trans shifts hard into 2nd gear dealer reflashed comp and said all updates current also changed fluid and filter also wondered if lube guard. Trans additive could be used in this trans
At 50 mph when it shifts in the overdrive it bangs kind of hard and sort of hesitates before it goes in
1993f350 4×4 460 ci leak at pump in bell housing
I have a 2013 f350 Diesel with 134,000 miles. Just had new air filter and service on Fri. On Sun, driving along in cruise control, towing a horse trailer, and it suddenly shifted to neutral and remains. Won’t go into gear now. Forward nor reverse. No error codes. No other signs. Mechanic says tranny fluid is pretty dark and smells burnt, and we need a new transmission. This was so out of the blue. Thoughts?
I have a 2000 F350 Super Duty diesel automatic when it’s cold I can put it in gear and it goes and drive for hundreds of miles as soon as I put it in park and then put it back and drive it doesn’t want to move until it cools off sometimes I can put it in first gear and it will go and then starts shifting and ride again what is my problem it’s been doing this for like a year now it’s starting to get worse
2011 F-350 Superduty 6.2 4×4 Slams into Reverse hard sometimes. Also seems to lag in shifting on occasion. Slips out (least it feels like it) and low RPM sometimes. NO light on. FORD said there is an issue they found during their to their 2 hr diagnostic. Asked to drop it off for a week. A week??
My 2011 does the same thing. It seems to have a moment of confusion between 2nd and 3rd gear. Especially if I am loaded and on even a light uphill grade. It is like….it can’t decide what gear to be in. Then….it chooses 4th. It does not slam into reverse but it does seem to shift kinda hard into OD (6th) from time to time. What did you do to fix yours?
My 2016 trans makes a whining noise while in park only after trans reaches operating temp, if I rev the engine it goes away. Any idea?
Have a 2003 F350 6.0L with 5R110w.
Tow haul light flashing PCM won’t recognize P or N for starter relay.
Can bypass and truck runs great.
Checked harness to range position sensor OK. Changed sensor but still no change.
Has reverse and probably 4th gear. No upshifting at all.
Revs about 2200-2400 rpm at idle.
Could this be Valve body/solenoid related???
Any advice would be great.
Check fuses under hood main junction box
Have an 03 F350 6.0L with 5R110W. Tow haul light flashes and no ignition in P or N.
Bypass ignition switch and truck fires and runs great. Can drive it but Trans stays in 4th and have reverse..RPM’s stay around 2200 at idle.
Seems that PCM can’t tell where P or N is for ignition.
Wiring for trans range selector sensor is OK so I change sensor
RPM’s stay around 2200 at idle.
Could this be faulty trans valve body/solenoids?
Any ideas??
I have the same exact problem. What was your fix?
Have a F350 Superduty V-10 with 260k miles. Feeling a vibration with the truck in drive and stopped at a light. Put truck in nuetral at the light, vibratiin goess away. Not always a consistant vibration in drive, when stopped at a light with brake pedal depressed.
I had the same problem with F350 v-10, it turned out to be the carrier bearing.
Have motor and transmission mounts checked.
Wow! Thanks for all the great information.