My car all of a sudden would not go forward in drive. I got home in 3rd gear. Now won't reverse. There is plenty of transmission fluid that does not smell burnt. Any suggestions?

your 2002 Ford Explorer XLS is only going forward in 3rd gear and not reversing, it could be caused by several issues. Here are a few possible causes:

1. Transmission control module (TCM): The TCM controls the shift patterns for the transmission, and if it is not functioning properly, it could cause the transmission to become stuck in 3rd gear.
2. Shift solenoids: The shift solenoids control the flow of fluid to the transmission, and if one or more of them are not functioning properly, it could cause the transmission to become stuck in 3rd gear.
3. Valve body: The valve body controls the flow of fluid to the transmission, and if it is clogged or malfunctioning, it could cause the transmission to become stuck in 3rd gear.
4. Linkage: The linkage connects the shifter to the transmission, and if it is loose or damaged, it could cause the transmission to become stuck in 3rd gear.
5. Automatic transmission filter and fluid: If the filter is clogged or the fluid is dirty or low, it could cause the transmission to become stuck in 3rd gear.

It's important to keep in mind that these are just a few possible causes and that there may be other issues that are preventing your Ford Explorer from going into reverse. It's best to take it to a qualified transmission specialist if you're unable to diagnose the issue.
It's also important to note that some of these steps require a certain level of mechanical knowledge and experience. If you're not comfortable with checking these items, it's best to consult a professional mechanic.if i was able to help my cashapp $ralphpapi thank you have a blessing day

When is last time you changed trans fluid and filter?

Transmission may now be toast since you continued to drive it when maybe low on fluid or torque converter had failed. How long since last fluid and filter change? Ever?

Sounds as if forward driving gears are shot. Different gears make vehicle move in reverse. I would ask if transmission fluid level when checked is in the operation range or full.

No reverse and only second,You have a internal mechanical transmission failure,This had nothing to do with you using cruise control,The transmission was ready to fail

If you have reverse, but no drive, and there is nothing wrong with the brakes, I would guess you have a problem inside the transmission.

Change the fluid and filter. If i remember correctly reverse and third gear share the same band and clutch pack. Some transmissions you could tighten the band on it.

Are you sure you have all 4 forward gears? Most of the time a no reverse condition also means 1st and 3rd only.No 2nd or 4th.If you dont have all the forward gears as i suspect , the reaction shell is stripped or broken.If you do have all the forward gears then these are the two most common reasons you do not have reverse.1 reverse input clutches are damaged or burnt 2 forward cltches have slipped to the point they are welded together causing a mechanical bind in reverse and also causing the transmission to pull forward in neutral.Let me know if i can help.Good Luck.

check fluid if it is a dark color and stinks transmissions probably needs rebuilt sounds like low reverse or direct clutch is bad trna will still go into loe by using forward clutch if low reverse is bad shoul be having problems with 3rd or direct in forward if forward clutch is bad

Sounds like your final drive pin in your differential broke causing the main spider pin to tear through the case.Catastropic damage.Check for severe fluid leak under car.If no signs of leaks,check dipstick for greyish blk colored fluid.If this is the case you will need to replace transaxle & flush trans cooler.hope this helps