Hi Scotty. I am disabled woman and cannot afford a new transmission. it started slipping (felt like in neutral for a second while driving) about two months ago. Only on occasion, only while driving. Today it was a little stronger, did it once. I told a mechanic about it last week. He checked my fluid and said it needed changing. He also said I may need a new transmission for my 2000 Ford Focus, 153,000 miles 4 door LX. Has my driving it ruined my transmission? Can this be fixed by a fluid change? It runs fine other than this occasional slipping for a moment. Thank you for considering me 😊
Unfortunately usually once slipping starts changing the fluid generally won’t help and you run the risk of it getting worse. This happens because the dirty fluid has particulates in it that help give some sort of friction if the discs are worn and if you flush the particulates out it can slip worse. If it’s an option you could try getting out of the car while it’s still driving before it fails completely
I thought that only happened if you flushed it, not just changed it. I only read this. I really don't know myself. The car is unattractive and valued only to me. Too bad I can't fix this. I understand it is dangerous to drive it like this.
Excellent advice from @r4nier
How many times has the fluid and filter been changed in 22 years and 153,000 miles?
I don't know. I bought it used in 2010 at 120,000 miles. I have never changed it. I always tell them at oil change to please check all my fluids. I thought this covered it.
Well you have nothing to lose at this point. Try some Lucas "no slip" additive. It might buy you a little time while you figure out your next move. (Bear in mind it is at the very best a temporary band-aid, it does not "fix" anything. It really is time to start thinking about a replacement vehicle.)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LMyfq8ZxZc8
