Need advice: Transmission issues on 2020 Ford Explorer, P0772 code

[planant]

Hi everyone,
I own a 2020 Ford Explorer with about 59k miles on it. Recently, I’ve been experiencing several issues with the transmission, and I’m hoping to get some advice from those who may have dealt with similar problems.

What happened:

1. I noticed difficulty shifting between 1st and 2nd gear, with some rough or delayed shifts.
2. Recently, the car became completely undrivable. I was driving at about 70 km/h (45 mph), but when I slowed down, there were loud clunking sounds when the transmission tried to shift.
3. When I came to a stop, the transmission no longer engaged properly, and the car wouldn’t move. I could only move forward a little before it stopped entirely, and reverse doesn’t work at all.
4. The check engine light came on, and it threw the P0772 code (solenoid E stuck on).

Additional Context:

• My powertrain warranty expired just 3 months ago, which makes this situation even more frustrating
• I took the car to my local Ford dealership, and they told me the transmission is completely shot and needs to be replaced. The cost is estimated at around $4k
• Another shop mentioned it might only be a problem with the valve body or solenoids and suggested inspecting it further.

Questions:

1. Has anyone else experienced similar issues with their Ford Explorer or other vehicles with this transmission?
2. Do you think it’s worth towing the car to a transmission rebuild shop for a second opinion?
3. Is it common for the P0772 code to indicate a complete transmission failure, or could it be something less severe like a solenoid or valve body issue?
4. Are there any known recalls, technical service bulletins (TSBs), or common problems with the transmission on the 2020 Explorer?

Any advice, personal experiences, or suggestions are greatly appreciated. I want to make sure I’m not replacing the entire transmission unnecessarily if it could be something more manageable.
Thanks in advance!

 

[Cdubya]

I would call Ford customer service and beg for some good will. Ford has had issues with 10R60s and 10R80s. Maybe they will help defray the cost or even comp you.

 

[planant]

I would call Ford customer service and beg for some good will. Ford has had issues with 10R60s and 10R80s. Maybe they will help defray the cost or even comp you.

Thanks for the suggestion! I already called Ford, but they said I’m out of luck and would have to pay the full cost. I’m waiting for a supervisor to call me back—fingers crossed they reconsider.