P2703 points at friction element D: the time it needs to take up torque, as seen from turbine and output speed, no longer matches what the controller has learned. In Ford's eight-speed front-drive units the code turns up with reverse problems. TSB 21-2029 covers 2020 Escape models with the 1.5L EcoBoost and 8F24 built before 7 August 2020 that lose reverse while storing P0766 and P2703; fine particles keep the lever inside the electrically operated SOWC (selectable one-way clutch) from deploying, so that clutch and the filter are replaced. SSM 54825 reports P2703 with P0766 and P0767 plus harsh or missing reverse on 2023 to 2026 Escape 8F35 units and fixes it with a new selectable one-way clutch, rebuilt next to the A clutch, and an overhauled valve body. Ford's 10R140 bulletin lists it as well.
Medium severity. Can I keep driving?Drive gently to a repair shop. If it slips, you hear clunks, or it loses its gears, do not keep driving.
Symptoms
- No reverse or harsh engagement into reverse
- Harsh or delayed shifts on gears using clutch D
- Check engine light on
Most likely causes
- Faulty or contaminated selectable one-way clutch (Ford 8F24/8F35)
- Sticking valve in the main control valve body
- Worn clutch D plates or leaking seals
- Debris in the transmission fluid
What to check, in order
Start with the simplest. You can tick off each step.
Good to know
- It can trigger limp mode.
- It affects emissions.
What each character of P2703 means
- P: Powertrain: engine and transmission
- 2: Generic code: same on every make
- 7: Transmission
- 03: Specific fault in that system
Frequently asked questions
Can I keep driving with code P2703?
Drive gently to a repair shop. If it slips, you hear clunks, or it loses its gears, do not keep driving.
What causes code P2703?
The most common causes are: faulty or contaminated selectable one-way clutch (Ford 8F24/8F35); sticking valve in the main control valve body; worn clutch D plates or leaking seals.
Related codes
- P2700Transmission Friction Element A Apply Time Range/Performance
- P2701Transmission Friction Element B Apply Time Range/Performance
- P2702Transmission Friction Element C Apply Time Range/Performance
- P2704Transmission Friction Element E Apply Time Range/Performance
- P2705Transmission Friction Element F Apply Time Range/Performance
- P0766Shift Solenoid D Performance/Stuck Off
- P0767Shift Solenoid D Stuck On
Sources
- static.nhtsa.gov: MC 10187829 0001
- static.nhtsa.gov: MC 11032758 0001
- static.nhtsa.gov: MC 10184638 0001
Values and procedures vary by manufacturer. If it affects brakes, steering, fuel or high voltage, see a professional. Updated: 2026-11-04. How we build these pages.