What does it mean when the OD light flashes on a Ford Explorer XLT?

Answer 1

O/D Off light flashing (Ford)Most likely cause..... In later years of this model production (aprox. 1995-2003) these vehicles were equipped with either a 4R44E transmission or (1999 and later) a 5R55E transmission. The former has a speed sensor located near the tailshaft housing that, when going out or has gone out, will cause the O/D Off light to flash intermittently or constantly. On the latter (5R55E) this sensor is located inside of the transmission and will cause the same symptoms. This sensor helps the computer to determine proper shift points. A bad sensor can cause hard shifting, delayed shifting or even failure to shift, resulting in premature transmission failure.

Additional info from Explorer owners:

I drive an 2002 Explorer with 168,000 miles; it has the 5R55W automatic transmission in it. Like many of you, my O/D light started flashing, and I was getting a hard shift from 2-3. After much research , including from this site, I learned that the problem is NOT solved by replacing the transmission. The problem is solved by replacing the auto trans solenoid pack (drop the pan, replace the solenoid pack, replace the the pan and refill with fluid). I had the repair done for just over $500 - labor & parts. The challenge is finding a transmission specialist who understands the problem and is willing to do the solenoid replacement INSTEAD of replacing the transmission. My transmission is now shifting silky smooth.

I drive a 1996 Ford Ranger with the same problem. My DTC is P1761, which indicates a bad shift solenoid. I have replaced it twice,so this is NOT the problem. I have replaced speed sensor and shift control module and the problem STILL persists...