Ford 4R55E 4-Speed Electronic Automatic · Ford/Lincoln · Expert rebuild service since 1987. Lifetime warranty. Free diagnostic.
1995–2001 Ford Explorer (4.0L V6 and 5.0L V8); 1995–2001 Ford Ranger (heavy-duty); 1995–1999 Mercury Mountaineer; heavier-duty version of 4R44E
| Configuration | 4-speed automatic with overdrive — heavy-duty Ranger/Explorer variant |
|---|---|
| Gear Ratios | 1st 2.47:1 · 2nd 1.47:1 · 3rd 1.00:1 · 4th 0.75:1 · Rev 2.11:1 |
| Fluid Type | Mercon V ATF |
| Fluid Capacity | 12.5 qts total, 5.5 qts service refill |
Same EPC failure pattern as 4R44E and all Ford electronic automatics.
Symptoms: P0745; slip; harsh shifts
Heavier Explorer and 5.0L V8 applications put more torque through the 4R55E's forward clutch pack than lighter Ranger applications. Forward clutch failure is more common on Explorer 5.0L units.
Symptoms: Slip in all forward gears; delayed Drive engagement; eventually no Drive
Same servo bore oval wear as the 4R44E.
Symptoms: 2nd gear slip; band adjustment maxed out
Full disassembly. EPC replaced. Servo bore measured and Sonnax piston if worn. All clutch packs replaced (upgraded kit for 5.0L applications). Valve body rebuilt. Converter flushed.
Mercon V every 30,000 miles. Explorer 5.0L 4R55E units benefit from an aftermarket transmission cooler for towing applications.
Yes — the 4R55E has a stronger input shaft and larger clutch packs. The 5.0L Explorer needed the additional torque capacity.
Likely forward clutch failure. We confirm with a pressure test — if line pressure is correct but forward gears slip, it's the forward clutch pack.
Rebuild is the better value — used units from the late 1990s have the same wear. We rebuild with new clutch packs and updated parts.
$1,500–2,100. 2-day turnaround.
The 5R55E replaced it for the 2000+ Explorer, offering a 5th overdrive gear.
Free diagnostic, written estimate, lifetime warranty. Chicago's 4R55E rebuild specialists since 1987.
