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2011 FORD EXPLORER
3.5L V6•AWD•AUTOMATIC•gas
8 active safety recalls on this vehicle — view recalls
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Repairs0Labor547Torque3596Fluid8DTC939Battery1Maintenance0Recalls8
P1783critical severityPowertrain

Transmission Overtemperature Condition

on 2011 Ford Explorer 3.5L V6 · AWD

What this code means

The PCM/TCM has detected that the transmission fluid temperature has exceeded the safe operating range. Excessive transmission heat accelerates fluid breakdown and causes accelerated wear of internal components.

Symptoms

  • Check Engine Light
  • Transmission temperature warning light
  • Harsh shifting
  • Transmission slipping
  • Possible limp mode
  • Burning fluid smell

Common causes

  • Low transmission fluid level
  • Contaminated or degraded fluid
  • Faulty transmission cooler
  • Blocked transmission cooler lines
  • Heavy towing or hauling
  • Torque converter clutch not engaging (keeping fluid hot)
  • Internal transmission failure

Diagnostic steps

  1. Check transmission fluid level and condition immediately
  2. Pull over and allow transmission to cool if actively overheating
  3. Inspect transmission cooler and lines for blockage or damage
  4. Check for TCC-related DTCs (P1740-P1744)
  5. Verify cooling system is functioning

Repair notes

Stop driving if transmission is overheating. Check fluid level. Service transmission cooler. Replace fluid and filter. Address any TCC issues.

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Other Powertrain codes on this vehicle

🔧 Database maintained under the daily editorial review of Chris Hackleman · Master Technician · 20+ years and Jeff Moore · Master Lexus & Toyota Mechanic · 20+ years. Spot an error? Use the Help link above — a human reads every report.
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