Remanufactured CD4E Transmissions: Specs & Updates

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In This Guide

• Vehicle Compatibility – Makes & Models
• CD4E Transmission Overview
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Upgrades to the Remanufactured CD4E Transmission
• What’s Included

Replacement CD4E Transmission Prices:

Transmission	Street Smart Transmission
CD4E	1947

CD4E Applications and Compatibility:

Model
Ford Escape
Mazda 626
Mazda Tribute
Mercury Mariner

CD4E Transmission Overview

The CD4E is an automatic transaxle transmission that saw service in front-wheel drive cars. It was in service from approximately 1994 to 2007, first marketed as the 4F44E among Ford manufacturers. Mazda had a virtually identical model and called it the LA4A-EL. The Batavia transmission plant first began manufacturing Ford’s version.

The first vehicles that received the CD4E were the Ford Probes, equipped with a four-cylinder engine. Meanwhile, the Mazda 626 and the MX-6 received the LA4A-EL. The Ford Mercury Mariner used this transmission until 2008. After that point, Ford retired the CD4E and the 4F44E and replaced them with the 4F27E.

Auto builders who wanted the CD4E automatic transmission could have it placed into the Ford Contour, the Escape, the Mondeo, and the Probe, all of which were front-wheel drive vehicles. Lesser-known vehicles that employed the CD4E were the Cougar, the Mariner, the Mystique, and the Tribute.

CD4E Transmission DTCs

Trouble Code	Description
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
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
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
P0817	Transmission Fluid Pressure Manual Valve Position Switch Reverse with Drive Ratio
P0817	Starter Disable Circuit
P0840	Transmission Fluid Pressure Sensor/Switch “A”
P0960	Pressure Control Solenoid “A” Control Circuit/Open
P0961	Pressure Control Solenoid “A” Control Circuit Range/Performance
P0962	Pressure Control Solenoid “A” Control Circuit Low
P0963	Pressure Control Solenoid “A” Control Circuit High
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

Ford CD4E Transmission Recalls

Recall ID 15V606000 / 15S28 – Shift lever may disengage from transmission – CD4E transmission

– Summary
The Ford Motor Company recalled 2001 – 2008 Ford Escape and 2001 – 2008 Mercury Mariner models that have been fitted with a remanufactured CD4E transmission that was built between June 11, 2015 – July 15, 2015. These warranty replacement transmissions have a shift lever bolt that may have not been properly tightened.

– Consequence
If the shift lever disengages from the transmission, the driver may not be able to control the gear that the transmission is in. This could lead to the driver thinking that they are placing the vehicle in Park, when it isn’t. Should this happen, the vehicle could unexpectedly roll away, causing injury and property damage.

– Solution
This recall was issued in October 2015, and Ford dealers were instructed to either tighten the manual shift lever bolt, or replace the shift lever assembly. Owners may contact Ford at 1-866-436-7332 or NHTSA at 1-888-327-4236

Ford CD4E Transmission Technical Service Bulletins | TSBs

TSB 07-5-6 – Engine stalling on the gear engagement and stopping – CD4E Transmission
2005 – 2008 Ford Escape – 2005 – 2008 Mercury Mariner
Problem – Some vehicles may experience engine stalling when coming to a stop, or shifting into Drive or Reverse. This transmission problem can be caused by internal wear to the torque converter which prevents it from unlocking.
Solution – Install remanufactured CD4E torque converter.

TSB 12-4-8 – Loss of 2nd and 4th gears – CD4E transmission
2007 – 2008 Ford Escape – 2007 – 2008 Mercury Mariner
Problem – Some vehicles may experience a sudden loss of 2nd and 4th gears. This applies to both four-cylinder and V6 models, with or without AWD.
Solution – Install new intermediate and overdrive bands.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Do I Access and Change the Filter?

In most transmissions, the filter has to be changed whenever the fluid is replaced. This isn’t a step to undergo with the CD4E because you can’t access it without completely taking apart the transmission. Although this might be cause for concern, the filter is designed to last for the entire working life of the transmission.

What is the Best Fluid to Use for the CD4E?

It’s best to use Mercron fluid. This is not the same as Mercron V; Mercron V can damage the CD4E transmission.

When Should the Fluid in the CD4E Be Changed?

Every 10,000 to 13,000 miles, it’s a good idea to change the fluid by using a standard draining procedure. This just changes the fluid. You should perform a power flush to remove any debris every 30,000 miles.

Is There a Shift Kit Available for the CD4E?

There is only one aftermarket shift kit available, and that’s the TransGo CD4Ejr.

What Are Some Methods to Prevent Overheating in the Transmission?

As far as the transmission goes, two options exist: replacing the fluid with synthetic fluid or installing an aftermarket cooler. Aftermarket coolers frequently improve on the original model. Just make sure it matches the physical dimensions.

Why Will My Car Not Move After Replacing the Transmission?

Let’s skip the obvious question and assume you have a transmission that you know works, and that its fluid levels are where they should be. At this point, the first culprit is probably the front pump. The front pump can be destroyed over time if you aren’t careful while installing the transmission’s torque converter unit.

Usually, it happens when the converter is placed directly against the pump. In extreme cases, a poorly installed torque converter can destroy the thrust bearing in the motor. Therefore, you should check the torque converter. There should be some leeway between it and the pump.

Upgrades to the Remanufactured CD4E Transmission

• Added line bore bushings to prevent leakage, increase flow, and prolong the working life of the transmission.
• Improved pressure control and the quality of the shift by adding a remanufactured body to the valve and a recalibration kit.
• Added a new torque converter that was tested for balance, leaks, and concentricity. The upgrades surpass the specs of the original transmission by improving the durability of the bushing and reducing vibration and the likelihood of seal leaks.
• Replaced old bushings with newer, stronger ones to improve fluid pressure and internal flow.
• Replaced calibration kit with an aftermarket model. It updates servos and the valve body accumulators.
• Aftermarket additions made to reduce the frequency of gear slippage. In turn, this upgrade prolongs the life of the transmission.
• Transmission upgrades are tested under complete road simulation conditions under both operational and idle conditions prior to shipping.

What’s Included

How to Buy a Remanufactured Transmission

1) Buying Locally

When you go to your local repair shop, they’ll order a remanufactured 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 distributor 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 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. 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. However, if the transmission case, or other key components are damaged beyond repair, you may not get all of your core charge back. Make sure to ask for the 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 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.