I have a 17 plate Ford BMax, 1.6 auto, (which has just @12,180 miles on the clock).
Last week, I had to recharge the battery. After recharging, I was presented with an error message, “Transmission malfunction”, with the engine warning symbol appearing as amber. Since the warning has come up, I have had to do a few small trips as I live in a village without shops. It is clear from driving the car that the gear change is not happening at what could be considered the right time, with the engine sounding as if it is at too high revs for the speed before the change of gear occurs. Also, when initially driving off, the car feels as if it is kangarooing as I apply the brakes to leave my drive and at the crossroads at the end of our lane. The total distance for this element of the drive is no more than 200 yards and thereafter, I do not appear to have the same kangarooing effect.
I am trying to keep driving to a minimum as I’m not sure if the issue is mechanical or technology related. If it is mechanical, I understand that it could be expensive to rectify, which is problematic given the low mileage. In addition, and to my non-mechanical mind, if the problem is mechanical and had we done more miles, then it may have manifested itself during the warranty period.
I did approach the local Ford main dealer in Basingstoke with a view to them looking at the issue but was put off as they wanted to charge £109 just for plugging in a computer, as the car is out of warranty. My local independent Ford garage is currently closed for the next two weeks due to Covid.
Has anyone successfully resolved this issue without great expenses?