Lincoln/Mercury Repair: Ford Taurus Motor/Tranny Problem, pontiac grand prix, dodge caravan


Question
If you don't mind me asking, which makes and models have the best transmissions?  What about a 99 Pontiac Grand Prix or Grand Am?  Thank you very much.
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Followup To

Question -
I have a 95 Ford Taurus 3.0l that seems to loose power in the heat of the day.  In the morning it runs perfectly, but as it gets warmer, there is a power loss and it seems the transmission slips.  What could this be?

Answer -
Hi Brooks,

I am sorry to say your car has a bad transmission. A couple of things to check before we conclude this: Check the level of the transmission fluid, in neutral with the E-brake on making sure the level is within the marks on the stick. If it's low, top it off and try it. If this works it will mean you need to have the leak fixed. Second, wipe the stick off on a white paper towel and see if you see anything in it. Lastly, smell the fluid for a burnt oder, like an electrical fire. It's likely going to be a brown color and have a burnt oder which would mean there is internal damage. I have been doing transmissions for 11 years and the Taurus/Sable/Windstar/Continental are the number 2 transmissions we overhaul. Dodge Caravan is number 1. I also suggest taking your car to a Cottman Transmission Shop. They will diagnose your trouble for free. Hope this helps. I realize it's not good news though.

Answer
Hi Brooks,

Thanks so much for the nice comment. Toyota, by far, makes the best transmission. Anything Dodge is the worst, putting my children through college! LOL Ford and GM overall are about the same and are fairly average. Ford trucks are the best truck transmissions. However the two models you are considering are average but will need transmission work between 70,000 and 100,000 miles.