2019 Continental Transmission Slipping and 'Service Advancetrac' Warning

0

Mike T. · rep 0 · May 25, 4:27 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2019 Lincoln Continental Reserve

Hello Lincoln owners,

I'm experiencing some concerning issues with my 2019 Lincoln Continental Reserve, which has about 60,000 miles. Lately, the transmission has started to slip, particularly when shifting from 2nd to 3rd gear, and sometimes from 3rd to 4th. It feels like a hesitation, then a jolt.

Coinciding with this, I'm frequently getting a 'Service Advancetrac' message on the dash, and sometimes the 'Hill Start Assist Not Available' warning. There's no Check Engine Light on, and I haven't pulled any specific OBD codes yet.

Has anyone else encountered this combination of problems? Could the Advancetrac warning be related to the transmission issue, or are they separate? Any advice on what to check first would be greatly appreciated.

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

0

ClearTheCode admin answer:

It's concerning to hear about your 2019 Lincoln Continental experiencing transmission slipping and Advancetrac warnings. These issues, especially when occurring together, often point to a deeper diagnostic problem.

Here's what could be happening and how to approach it:

  1. Interconnected Systems:

    • Cause: The Advancetrac system (Ford's Electronic Stability Control) relies heavily on input from various sensors, including wheel speed sensors, steering angle sensor, and the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). Transmission issues can directly affect the PCM's ability to accurately control vehicle dynamics, triggering Advancetrac warnings.
    • Action: It's highly probable that your transmission problem is the root cause, and the Advancetrac warning is a symptom of the powertrain not operating as expected.
  2. Transmission Slipping - Potential Causes:

    • Low Transmission Fluid: While sealed transmissions are less prone to leaks, it's possible. Low fluid can cause slipping and delayed shifts.
    • Solenoid Issues: Modern automatic transmissions use solenoids to control fluid flow and gear engagement. A failing shift solenoid can cause erratic shifting or slipping.
    • Valve Body Problems: The valve body directs hydraulic fluid to different parts of the transmission. Wear or blockages can lead to shifting problems.
    • Internal Wear: Clutch packs or bands within the transmission can wear out, leading to slipping.
    • Transmission Control Module (TCM) Fault: The TCM could be failing or receiving incorrect data, leading to improper shift commands.
  3. Diagnostic Steps:

    • Scan for Codes (Even Without CEL): Even if the Check Engine Light isn't on, a more advanced diagnostic scanner can often pull 'pending' codes or codes from other modules (like the TCM, ABS module, or BCM) that aren't severe enough to trigger the CEL but indicate a problem.
    • Check Transmission Fluid Level and Condition: If possible and safe to do so for your specific transmission (some require specific procedures), check the fluid. Look for proper level and if the fluid smells burnt or looks dark/chunky.
    • Note Driving Conditions: Pay attention to when the slipping occurs – specific gears, engine temperature, acceleration levels. This information is crucial for a technician.

When to See a Shop: Given that transmission slipping can quickly lead to more severe and costly damage, it is highly recommended to have your Continental inspected by a qualified transmission specialist or a Lincoln dealership as soon as possible. Driving with a slipping transmission can exacerbate the problem. They can perform a comprehensive diagnostic scan, check fluid pressure, and assess the internal health of the transmission to accurately diagnose the issue.