Chrysler Repair: Cirrus transmission: downshifted then no go., 4 digit numbers, fault code reader

Question
I own a 2000 Cirrus with 110,000 miles on it. I was driving on a highway and the trans downshifted into third from overdrive. I called a friend he said stop, shut the car and restart. I did and the car did restart but it will not move, unless towed. Do I need a new transmission?
Thank you for the help,
Joe

Answer
Hi Joe,
I would start by verifying that you have sufficient transmission fluid (type ATF+4) via the dipstick. If that is OK, then I would try the ignition key, turn it:"on-off-on-off-on and leave on" doing that in 5 seconds or less elapsed time. Then watch the odometer to see if the mileage reading changes to show any 4-digit numbers prefaced with a P. If so let me know what those are. If the car is at a garage ask them to do the same attempt to get the 4-digit fault code numbers by means of a fault code reader that plugs in to a socket under the dash by the steering wheel.
The 4 digit codes will tell us alot about what is wrong with the transmission and also what needs to be done to get it running normally again. That will possibly avoid a costly rebuild.
Let me know what you find.
Roland