Chrysler Repair: Transmission problem: 2nd gear only, digit code number, chevy cavalier

Question
My car won't shift ou of my second gear, Chevy cavalier, 2002 engine 2,2 L ECOTEC. The engine light is on and the T/C (traction control) light is on

Can you please help what could be? odometer reading only 101000km

Thx a lot for your kind support. Jorgo

Answer
Hi Jorgo,
The electronic transmissions have a fail-safe fallback when something is wrong that if allowed to continue might cause unnecessary damage. Usually it is to only use a gear that involves the least amount of moving parts, which is 2nd gear. The check engine light means that the transmission computer has noticed the problem and done something about it but that there is an underlying problem that needs attention. The simplest cause would be if the electric switch (relay) for the electronic function of the trans has ceased to work, or its fuse has blown. And from there things get more complex. The computer has stored in its memory a fault code that explains what it thinks is wrong. You can get that 4-digit code number via reader that plugs into a socket under the dash. An Autozone parts store will often do a readout for free so see if there is one in your area. An independent repair shop may charge about $40 for the readout*. Get the number and ask what it means and how much it would be to fix it. I don't have manuals for Chevys but perpaps the numbering system of the codes is the same as for Chrysler. Let me know if you want me to check out what you were told, but I would need to know the number.
Roland
*With some Chrysler cars you can use the ignition key to get the code number:"on-off-on-off-on and leave on" doing that in 5 seconds or less elapsed time. Then watch the odometer window to see the kilometer reading changes to show a 4-digit number which would be the code. Give it a try, but no guarantees it will work.