Feb 28, 2013 at 8:43 AM
+ 1 on getting the codes
Looking on crownvic.net some of the newer models like your 2003 will show a CEL if they have gone into limp mode. This would be the case if your tranny is acting up. Also looking at crownvic.net it looks like the most common issue with the overdrive is the solenoid going bad not actually the whole tranny.
Also there are some nice bluetooth scanners available on the web for pretty good prices I picked up an ELM327 v1.5 and it works great, newegg.com has them for around 20 bucks. You do have to have a laptop or Android phone though as the Apple App store doesn't have a compatible app. The Android App Torque Pro runs 4.99 and pulls all the standard data as well as all measuring points in real time.
SamTi44 did you get the computer reset after the rebuilt tranny? If not hit up your local Autozone or O'Rielly and reset the ECU to see if that clears up your light issue. Also if your ECU is still showing the tranny issues it may be keeping the car in limp mode killing your power.