2009 ford escape with a thud

Question

I have a 2009 Ford Escape with 105,000 miles, automatic transmission.

I have had this issue for about two years now. After the car warms up, after about 15 minutes I apply the brakes and as the car is slowing down and is almost at a stop, there is a thud that you feel under the front of the vehicle. It doesn't do it each time but maybe after stopping two or three times, then on the fourth time it will do it again plus a burning smell in the front left. If I really have to apply the brakes, the burn smell is the worst, and you can smell it in the cab. If I just drive it for a few minutes, the burning small starts almost immediately coming from the front left.

I took it to the mechanic who said I have a transmission leak. I wanted a second opinion and that tech said I do not have a transmission link but ran codes and he did not provide me with the code numbers but stated they meant the Shift solenoid was at fault and the pressure control was at fault. My engine light has never come on. He said he would have to drop the transmission, and it would cost around 3500.00

It has not gotten any worse or better within these two years. I have taken it to four shops, and they have no idea. Two were Ford dealers who claim they never felt the thud.

The car drives just fine, drives smooth and runs smooth. Turns just fine. No shaking. No check engine light. I am desperate as the vehicle is clean and very well kept and I would like to keep it. If it is the transmission, then fine but I'm wondering if it could be something wrong with the braking system because if I pump the brakes to slow it down, I can make it not do the thud or if it does it is felt very slightly.

fishingandcarsenthusiast123 · Accepted Answer

[quote data-userid="180220151" data-postid="329762"] After the car warms up, after about 15 minutes I apply the brakes and as the car is slowing down and is almost at a stop, there is a thud that you feel under the front of the vehicle. [/quote] Noises can pinpoint all over a car. Go on Youtube and watch Scotty's video. Do a search for Finding the Sources of Car Noises Scotty. He'll show you how to use a device to help pinpoint the exact location of the noise. [quote data-userid="180220151" data-postid="329762"] then on the fourth time it will do it again plus a burning smell in the front left. If I really have to apply the brakes [/quote] Sounds like something in your brakes is worn out. Have you checked your brake pads/rotors/etc for wear?    [quote data-userid="180220151" data-postid="329762"] he did not provide me with the code numbers but stated they meant the Shift solenoid was at fault and the pressure control was at fault. [/quote] If you take go to any parts store they'll scan it for free. Unless you give us the precise OBD codes it's very difficult to point you in the right direction. [quote data-userid="180220151" data-postid="329762"] I have taken it to four shops, and they have no idea. Two were Ford dealers who claim they never felt the thud.   [/quote] Who/what were those 'shops' you went to? Were they chain shops? Also dealers and chain shops often employ part-changers rather than those skilled at diagnosing problems. It is in your best interest to find a good independent mechanic in your area (guide in the FAQ) who will diagnose rather than load up and fire the parts cannon.

MountainManJoe · Answer

sounds like a binding driveshaft