Vehicle: 2016 Lincoln MKX, AWD, V6-3.7L, Automatic Transmission/Transaxle

Mileage: 115,366 miles

Problem: The owner’s concern was that the transmission didn’t downshift to lower gear after slowing down (but not stopping), then accelerating. It stayed in a higher gear and the engine bogged when attempting to accelerate.

Case Details: The technician found no diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) in any module and decided to call ALLDATA Tech-Assist for some diagnostic advice.

The Tech-Assist consultant said that, with no DTCs, he would recommend checking the fluid level and condition first. If those were OK, the next step would be to clear the adaptive transmission shift strategy, which would allow the powertrain control module (PCM) to relearn the transmission’s unique parameters. That should improve the shift quality. NOTE: Once the transmission’s adaptive strategy is reset, the computer will begin a relearning process. The relearning process may result in firmer-than-normal upshifts and downshifts for several days.

The technician checked the transmission fluid. The fluid was in good condition, so he found the relearn procedure in ALLDATA Repair.

Confirmed Repair: He performed the adaptive strategy, reset and the relearn procedure, then road-tested the vehicle. The transmission shifted correctly during the road test. Problem quickly solved!