I am just trying to figure out what the problem is with the transmission or find out if maybe it is another problem like the rear axles. Since I was reading that the police interceptor cars have issues with the rear axles and since this car used to be a state police cruiser in Newport news Virginia I would like to know where to start looking at possible solutions to my problem. I am also trying to figure out what transmission I have in my crown Victoria. I have yet to be able to figure that out as well. Any and all help will be greatly appreciated.

Both my 2003 Crown Vic and my sone 2002 Mercury Grand Marquis (same car)continuall have transmission shudder and hesitation problems. The Dealer said these transmissions are touchy and need trans flushes and replacement fluid every 25-30,000 miles. The Ford book says every 40,000mi. The problem is very irritating and I know will lead to early trans failure. I now have to go in about 25,000 intervals to have flushes done for about $150.00 each time. This car, while very nice riding, has had more than its share of problems including ball joints going out (both my and my sons Merc) front springs breaking, loosing axle's every 45,000mi. We are both easy drivers with mostly highway miles.