This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the transmission range sensor on a 2011-2014 Ford F-150 with 3.5L EcoBoost V6 and 4WD.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Transmission Range Sensor (TR sensor) × 1 — Motorcraft DY-1241 or equivalent
• Transmission range sensor O-ring or gasket × 1 — Usually included with sensor

Fluids

• Motorcraft MERCON LV ATF — 1 qt

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and apply parking brake
2. Place wheel chocks behind rear wheels
3. Raise front of vehicle using jack and support securely on jack stands
4. Allow transmission to cool if vehicle was recently driven
5. Disconnect negative battery cable to prevent electrical issues during sensor replacement

Procedure

1. 1

   Access transmission range sensor
   Position yourself under the vehicle on the driver's side. Locate the transmission range sensor on the left side of the 6R80 transmission case, near the manual shift lever. Use a flashlight to identify the sensor and electrical connector. Clean the area around the sensor with a shop rag to remove dirt and debris.
2. 2

   Disconnect electrical connector
   Locate the electrical connector attached to the transmission range sensor. Press the connector release tab and carefully pull the connector straight off the sensor. Inspect the connector pins for corrosion or damage. If the connector is stubborn, gently wiggle it while pulling to avoid breaking the connector tabs.
3. 3

   Position drain pan
   Place a drain pan directly beneath the transmission range sensor location. Expect approximately 0.5 to 1 quart of transmission fluid to drain when the sensor is removed. Position shop rags around the area to catch any splatter.
4. 4

   Remove sensor mounting bolts
   Using an 8mm or 10mm socket (depending on specific sensor design), remove the two bolts securing the transmission range sensor to the transmission case. Keep these bolts in a safe location for reinstallation. Support the sensor with one hand as you remove the second bolt to prevent it from falling.
   Torque spec

   Sensor Bolts12 Nm (9 lb-ft)
5. 5

   Remove transmission range sensor
   Carefully pull the sensor straight out from the transmission case. Fluid will begin to drain immediately. Allow fluid to drain into the pan. Once fluid flow stops, remove the sensor completely. Inspect the sensor O-ring or gasket for wear or damage.
6. 6

   Clean mounting surface
   Use a clean shop rag to wipe the transmission case mounting surface where the sensor was installed. Remove all traces of the old gasket material or O-ring. Ensure the manual shift lever shaft is clean and free of debris. Do not allow dirt to enter the transmission case opening.
7. 7

   Prepare new sensor
   Remove the new transmission range sensor from packaging. Install the new O-ring or gasket onto the sensor if not pre-installed. Lightly lubricate the O-ring with clean MERCON LV transmission fluid to ease installation and ensure proper sealing. Verify the sensor manual shift lever engagement mechanism is in good condition.
8. 8

   Install new sensor
   Align the new transmission range sensor with the manual shift lever shaft on the transmission case. Ensure the sensor engages properly with the shaft. Press the sensor firmly into position against the transmission case, ensuring the O-ring seats correctly. Verify the sensor mounting holes align with the transmission case holes.
9. 9

   Install and torque sensor bolts
   Insert the two sensor mounting bolts and thread them in by hand to avoid cross-threading. Tighten the bolts evenly using a torque wrench to the specified torque value of 12.0 Nm (9.0 lb-ft). Do not over-tighten, as this can damage the sensor housing or crack the transmission case.
   Torque spec

   Sensor Bolts12 Nm (9 lb-ft)
10. 10

    Reconnect electrical connector
    Push the electrical connector onto the new transmission range sensor until it clicks into place. Tug gently on the connector to verify it is securely locked. Ensure the connector seal is properly seated to prevent moisture intrusion.
11. 11

    Check and refill transmission fluid
    Lower the vehicle from jack stands. Start the engine and check the transmission fluid level using the dipstick with the engine running and transmission in Park. Add Motorcraft MERCON LV ATF as needed to bring the fluid level to the proper range on the dipstick. Typically 0.5 to 1 quart will be needed to replace fluid lost during sensor replacement.
12. 12

    Clear diagnostic codes
    Reconnect the negative battery cable. Using an OBD-II scanner, clear any stored diagnostic trouble codes related to the transmission range sensor (such as P0705, P0707, or P0708). This ensures accurate verification of the repair.

Reassembly

1. Ensure all electrical connections are secure and properly seated
2. Verify transmission fluid level is within the proper range on the dipstick with engine running
3. Double-check that sensor mounting bolts are torqued to specification
4. Remove all tools and drain pans from under the vehicle

Verification

• Start the engine and verify the transmission engages properly in Park
• Cycle the shifter through all gear positions (P-R-N-D-L) while observing the instrument cluster gear position indicator matches the shifter position
• Verify the engine only starts in Park and Neutral positions
• Test drive the vehicle to confirm smooth shifting and proper transmission operation in all gears
• Using an OBD-II scanner, verify no transmission range sensor codes are present after test drive
• Check for transmission fluid leaks around the sensor after test drive

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