I have a 1996 ford contour. The over drive light is on and the car goes into 1st gear fine but it's hard to go into 2nd and drive. What could be the problem?

I have a 92 Crown Vic first and second works fine reverse works fine when it shifts in the third gear it goes to slipping and overdraft can you help me fix this problem thank you

Yes the converter and bands are toasted. You more than likely need a transmission.

check your fluid level, if it is low it can cause shifting problems. Also, your fluid may need to be flushed and refilled.

check your trans fluid if its ok you may need a transmission

Please don't forget to rate!

1st step 15-22 ft.lbs.
2nd step 30-37 ft. lbs.
3rd step Tighten the bolts an additional 90-120 degrees

Do you need the tightening sequence?

the tranny is slipping ,,in other words its starting to go.

check your rear brake shoes if you had them changed recently they may not have been adjusted properly and that sometimes will cause that and also check the rear diff yoke where the driveshaft goes insometimes it get gear oil on it and harder for it turn. i would try these hints first before i take to shop

try checking your auto trani fluid... and with the 4 wheel drive try puting ti in nuteral and if the doesnt work try puting it in reverse and back up after taking it out of 4 wheel drive.

The item referred to needing adjustment in the previous reply is called the MLP (manual lever position sensor). It tells the computer electronically that the car is in P, R, N, D, 2,1 (depending on the gear selector) It also allows the car to only be started in P and N for safety.
If it is out of adjustment, the sensor is misaligned with it's reference point on the gear selector rod, which goes into the trans case and pushes/pulls a rod that moves the selector piston/valve. The valve will be in the right place but the computer will say other wise and it controls the shifting with the solenoids.
SOURCE INFO:
{MLP transaxle function: determion desired gear and electronic pressure control (EPC) pressure:
Symptoms: Harsh engagements and firm shift feel, engine may not crank, may downshift to a lower gear, 2nd or 3rd gear operation, transaxle not inicating the proper gear, no 4th gear operation. no manual first gear.}
Another point of interest is the EPC (electronic pressure control)solenoid inside the black side cover.
Failed OFF-maximum EPC pressure, harsh engagements and harsh shifts.

Another possible issue may just worn out clutches if the unit has high mileage or maybe verify fluid level and recent change of fluid. The filter is inside unit and trans has to be removed to change, some Hondas are like this too.

Order an ATSG service manual off ebay and it lists tons of problems and step by step overhaul