Chrysler Repair: speedo/gear shifting malfunction, chrysler cirrus, output speed

Question
my speedometer is not working and it doesn't sound like its changing gears correctly, now my check engine light is on....1998 chrysler cirrus....then as I drive it the speedometer works and then when I stop to slow down sometimes it just stops again

Answer
Hi Marie,
The chances are that the transmission's "output speed sensor" located on the side of the transmission near the rear is malfunctioning and needs to be replaced as it is needed both for  the speedometer to read and the gears to shift properly. It also will cause the check engine light to appear when it quits. You can verify that via a free fault code readout at an Autozone parts store. The code 0500 or 0720 would be corroborative of my diagnosis.
This is a simple repair, unscrew the old/screw in the new, but shop around for the best labor cost; and the part itself can be purchased for as little as $25 whereas a dealer may charge $80, so again comparison shopping is a good idea.
Roland