Erratic idle and neutralizing transmission?

2003 LINCOLN TOWN CAR
67,000 MILES • 4.6L • V8 • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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STRICTLYDIMES
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Hello,

Sometimes when at a stoplight or coasting to one, the idle becomes slightly erratic, and the transmission neutralizes. If I wait a few seconds, it goes away and back to normal. Only just started doing this. Fluid is at normal level when hot. It doesn’t smell burnt, isn’t cherry red, but more of a lighter maroon color. Fluid and filter done approximately 2014 at approximately 50,000-mile mark.
Never a taxi, private owned vehicle.

Can this be something other than transmission related (I hope)?

Will adding an additive help or make it worse?

Thanks In advance.
Nov 2, 2023 at 1:52 PM
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STRAILER
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I have seen the Lucas transmission treatment do wonders, but let's run the codes to see what comes up.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/checking-a-service-engine-soon-or-check-engine-light-on-or-flashing

I have seen the pressure regulating solenoid cause problems like this, this is the location so you can check it out. I have also seen the fluid filter inside the transmission come loose which can cause this as well.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-service-an-automatic-transmission

Check out the images (below). Please let us know how it goes.



Nov 2, 2023 at 4:55 PM
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STRICTLYDIMES
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Thank you, I will look into this.
Nov 4, 2023 at 9:31 PM
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