Chrysler Repair: 95 New Yorker transmission shifts to lower gear, climate control system, automatic climate control

Question
Hello Roland:

The transmission on my 1995 New Yorker sometimes slips into a lower gear, usually when driving steadily at around 60 km/hr or thereabouts. It returns to normal operation when the car is stopped and the ignition turned off for a minute or two. A transmission flush was performed at a local Chrysler dealer within the past 2 weeks, but the problem is still evident. I read
through some of your answers regarding similar problems and e-mailed the dealer asking if the service department could produce a read-out of codes from the electronic transmission controller that might provide a clue as to the source of the problem. Do you think the problem is more likely electronic, or does this sound like an internal transmission fault that may require expensive repair?? Many thanks for your feedback.
Also: A few months ago you provided good feedback regarding a problem with the automatic climate control system on this car.
In the end, I replaced the unit with a reasonably priced one from an auto recycler AND replaced the under-dash control module with a new one from the Chrysler dealer. So far, everything is working
fine. Many thanks!!

- John

Answer
Hi John,
The trans is defaulting to limp-in mode because it has detected a problem which if not addressed can cause unnecessary damage. It has stored a code that describes the problem in the memory of the transmission computer.
My recommendation is that you get code readout via the blue color data link connector located at the lower edge of the dash, to the right of the steering column, using a Chrysler Diagnostic Readout Box II (DRB-II), or an equivalent OBD-I Snap-0n brand diagnostic reader. You might ask at an Autozone parts store if they have such a reader that can get transmission fault codes as if do they will do it for free. Or find an independent shop with the necessary reader and they will do it for under $40.
The code numbers are 2-digit and overlap numerically between the engine trouble codes and the transmission trouble codes so that is why you have to use a more sophisticated reader that can specifically request transmission codes from the transmission computer. Once you get the transmission fault codes tell me what they are and we'll go from there. It is clear that there is a present problem that you have to find the code for in order to solve this. The code will likely answer your question about whether the issue is minor or major.
'Glad to learn your HVAC system is working well again.
Roland
PS Please 'rate' my answer, and where you see the question about a 'nomination to be volunteer of the month' please consider giving a 'yes' answer. Thank you.