Chrysler Repair: transmission wont shift out of second gear, dipstick tube, 4 digit numbers

Question
99 voyager it does not want drop into low gear when you stop it takes off in 2nd gear wen had it check by 2 people they could not explain it it does not slip it changes fine it will drop 2 low sometimes i even tried to shift manually still would not drop to low gear please help me if you can thanks

Answer
Hi Tony,
This is symptomatic of a problem with the transmission that requires limiting the use of all the gears until it can be repaired. The transmission controller does this to minimize damage until the repair can be effected. It is called 'limp-on' mode.
What needs to be done is get a fault code readout from the trans controller. The code will identify the cause and possible solutions. Try the ignition key:"on-off-on-off-on and leave on" doing that in 5 seconds or less elapsed time. Then watch the odometer window to see if the mileage reading changes to show 4-digit numbers preceded by a P. Let me know any numbers that you get and we'll go from there. If that doesn't work then you can get a free readout at most Autozone parts stores by means of a plug in code reader that mates to a socket under the dash by the steering column.
Ask for the code number, what it means, what should be done, and for how much. Then let me know and we'll compare that to the manual.
One thing to do now is check the level of fluid in the transmission via its separate dipstick. If it is low add only ATF +4 type fluid, but don't overfill it. Add it via the dipstick tube and check as you add.
Roland