I have a 1996 Grand Marquis LS it drove great until recently I tried taking it for a drive and noticed my transmission wasn't shifting after first gear. I called a few transmission shops and their estimate for a re-build is about 1,500. Does anyone know more about this problem?

 

First thing to do is check the transmission fluid level. Pull the dip stick with the motor at normal running temp. (running in park). Low fluid levels are the easy fix, otherwise, a more serious problem may exist. BTW, the fluid on the stick should be a pinkish red if OK. A dark maroon color indicates burnt fluid that needs to be changed.

 

Also if im not mistaken if the fluid is brown and/or smells like burnt popcorn this might indicate that the clutches are toast.

 

Don't know up to how much mph it goes. If it struggles most likely the direct drive clutches are gone and the overdrive band is toast. Those I believe are responsible for 3rd and overdrive. Your car Either has an AODE or 4r70w.

 

Fluid should be changed every 40,000. I had same problem with mine. The guy who owned it before me towed a small camper trailer all over the U.S.A my car had about 400,000 when I got it from him I changed the 1/2 piston and drained the converter, I used line cleaner (can be bought at NAPA) and refiled the system now all ok. You have a tuff transmission clean it replace the 1/2 piston ($7.00 from ford) put in a new filter and you have a new car. There is another piston that may need replacing but i did not do it other one The fluid will go bad after many miles the filter will fill up with junk, and the new pistons are better than the original. Best of luck