Remanufactured AX4N / AX4S Transmissions: Specs & Updates

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AX4N / 4F50N Vehicle Compatibility – Makes & Models

1996–1999 Ford Taurus SHO
1994–2007 Ford Taurus
1995–2002 Lincoln Continental
1994–2005 Mercury Sable
2001–2003 Ford Windstar
2004–2007 Ford Freestar
2004–2007 Mercury Monterey

AX4S / 4F50N Vehicle Compatibility – Makes & Models

1993–1994 Lincoln Continental
1993–2003 Ford Taurus
1993–2003 Mercury Sable
1995–2000 Ford Windstar

The Ford AX4N / AX4S transmission first saw production in 2003 models.  The AXOD-E was renamed AX4S in 1993. In addition to the name change, improvements in the lubrication of the gearset and capacity upgrades were made. A centrifugal piston assembly was implemented in the intermediate clutch position to improve 1st–2nd and 2nd–1st shift quality and an increase in the clutch’s durability was made on some models. High energy friction materials were also introduced. A new twin piston torque converter clutch (TCC) was introduced with the AX4S and the AX4N on some models. The transaxle pan on this model will sometimes read “AXOD Metric” since it is based on the AXOD transaxle. The data plate code for this transmission is “L.”

The AX4N is an improved version of the basic AXOD, and is more reliable. This transaxle shifting is non-sequential (as indicated by the “N” in AX4N) and has improved shift quality over the previous AX4S. Although similar in design and dimensions, it is a different transaxle than previous AXOD transmissions. The AX4N has 19 bolts to retain the fluid pan. It was used in the 1996–99 Taurus SHO models, and was standard on Duratec-powered models. It also appears in some 1994–2002 Vulcan-powered models. It became standard with both engines in 2003. It was renamed the 4F50N in 2001.

Common AX4N / AX4S Diagnostic Trouble Codes

AX4N / AX4S Technical Service Bulletins | TSBs

TSB 03-12-3 – Torque converter clutch not engaging and/or OBDII trouble codes P0741 or P1744
1996 – 2003 Ford Taurus – 1996 – 2003 Ford Windstar – 1996 – 2002 Lincoln Continental – 1996 – 2003 Mercury Sable
Problem – Drivability issues can result when the torque converter clutch will not engage when commanded. This can be caused by a number of issues including a worn out AX4S torque converter, or a sticking TCC solenoid.
Solution – Replace torque converter and/or TCC solenoid

Common Problems with the AX4N / AX4S

Slipping, Erratic Shifting, Harsh Forward or Reverse Gear Engagement: Some of the most common AX4N / AX4S transmission problems are slipping between gears, erratic up or down shifts, or a hard slam when the AX4N / AX4S transmission engages Drive or Reverse. There are a number of design flaws in this transmission, and any one of them could be causing these symptoms.

Another common problem is overheating. This happens when the moving parts inside the transmission are creating more friction heat than the ATF can remove. The most common cause of this condition is towing heavy loads, driving in stop/go traffic, or on mountain roads where the transmission has to shift a lot.

Updates to Remanufactured AX4N / AX4S Transmissions

• Remanufactured pump, with new line bore bushings to eliminate leaks and provide superior flow and durability.
• Remanufactured valve body, with complete system correction and recalibration kit, improves pressure control and shift quality.
• Remanufactured and improved torque converter tested for leaks, concentricity, and balance. Upgrades exceed OE requirements and eliminate the possibilities of front seal leaks, premature bushing wear, and vibration.
• All new, bushings installed in key locations to improve internal fluid flow control and fluid pressures.
• Complete system correction and recalibration kit installed to address several OE flaws. Modifications include updates to servos, the PR system, and valve body accumulators.
• Heavy-duty recalibration kit installed to reduce slippage and increase durability.
• Complete road simulation using a dynamometer testing program called C.A.R.S. (Computer Aided Road Simulation). Every transmission is cold and hot tested before shipment.

How to Buy a Remanufactured AX4N / AX4S Transmission

1) Buying Locally

When you go to your local repair shop, they’ll order a remanufactured AX4N / AX4S transmission, then mark up the price. So at the end of the day, you’ll be paying 15% to 30% more than the actual cost of the unit.

2) Buying Online

Buying a reman transmission through a company like Street Smart Transmission will save you a considerable amount of money because you pay the wholesale price (avoiding a repair shop’s 15% to 30% markup), they’ll ship the unit to the shop of your choice free of charge, and returning your old transmission is free as well. Then all you have to pay for is the labor to install the unit (usually $400 to $800), and you’re on your way.

How Does it Work?

To order a remanufactured AX4N / AX4S transmission from a company like Street Smart Transmission, all you need to do is provide your vehicle’s VIN number, the mileage, and the address of the repair shop that you want it shipped to.

Financing

Replacing a transmission can be expensive, so Street Smart Transmission offers financing through PayPal Credit. Depending on your credit, you’ll be able to order a new transmission, get back on the road, then pay for it over time. You may have to pay labor charges for the installation up front, but you won’t have to shell out for the transmission all at once.

Shipping Charge/Location

When it comes to shipping, a transmission is quite heavy. So you’re going to pay quite a bit of money, unless the reman transmission company offers free shipping. Street Smart offers free shipping to a business address, which is usually the repair shop that you’ve chosen to install the unit.

What is a Core Charge (Core Deposit)?

Every remanufactured transmission originally came from somebody else’s car. Therefore, they need your broken transmission in order to refurbish it for another customer.

Your old/damaged transmission is called a “core”, and many companies will collect a core charge (usually $500 to $1500), which will be refunded once they receive your old transmission. (Street Smart does not charge an up-front core charge.) Make sure to ask any company for their core return policy, so you’ll know what to expect.

Our Recommendation

We recommend Street Smart Transmission. We have found Street Smart to be of the highest quality. Their transmissions carry a 3 year / unlimited miles warranty that covers both parts and labor. Their warranty is nationwide and attached to the VIN so it is transferable with ownership if you decide to sell the vehicle. It also covers both parts and labor for the installation of the replacement transmission.

Finding a Shop to Install the Remanufactured Transmission

If your transmission has failed, you’re going to need a skilled mechanic to replace it. You can find a shop to install your transmission using our shop locator map.

For warranty purposes, you need to find a reliable repair shop. That way, if the replacement transmission doesn’t work properly, the warranty will cover it.

Ready to Replace Your AX4N / AX4S Transmission?

Click Get a Free Estimate for an unbeatable price on a replacement remanufactured transmission.

Need a replacement transmission? Get an estimate for replacement transmissions and local installation. Look up your transmission model by vehicle make and model.

What Transmission Do I Have?