Problem with uncontrolled gear changes and grinding noises when changing gear in the 2009 Ford S MAX - looking for advice and experience

Hey, I had a similar problem with my 2007 Ford Galaxy, also a gasoline engine. Like you, I'm not a car expert, but I do have some experience with cars. When the problem arose, I went to my regular garage. After a few checks, the mechanics discovered that the gearbox control unit was faulty. The repair cost me around 1000 euros, which was a major blow. To give you more details, I would need a little more information about your car - what model and what equipment do you have? The more details, the better I might be able to help you.

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Hi, thanks for the quick reply. My S MAX was built in 2009, it has already covered 70159 km, but the last service was a while ago. I hope I can get away with the repair a little more cheaply, 1000 euros would be quite a lot. Do you have any ideas on what I could check myself before I go to the garage? Fortunately, I have a friend who knows a bit about cars.

(Translated from German)

You're welcome. At your mileage, the symptoms could also be caused by normal wear. Before you go to the workshop, my first recommendation would be to check whether the transmission oil is sufficient and clean. Slipping or strangely shifting gears are often a sign that the gearbox oil is either too old or there is not enough of it. Your buddy could also have a look at the condition and position of the transmission control unit, maybe he'll find a loose connection or something similar. Just an idea, I'm not a mechanic. Hope that helps you for now. Oh yes, and try not to wait too long to have it repaired. Problems like this can quickly get worse if you ignore them. Good luck and hopefully it won't be quite so expensive!

(Translated from German)

Hey, those are really helpful tips, thank you! The gearbox oil and gearbox control unit thing sounds logical, I'll have a look with my buddy. And don't worry, I won't put it off, I know that problems like this can quickly get bigger. I just hope it won't be too expensive. I'll get back to you when I know more. Thanks again for your help!

(Translated from German)