QuestionQUESTION: I have a 1999 Chrysler Cirrus with 47,000 miles on it. The transmission will not shift out of first but my speedometer is working. It shifts into reverse rough and when put into forward it shifts hard.
ANSWER: Hi Ken,
The locking up in 2nd gear, rather than first, is a indication that the transmission controller has detected a fault in the operation of the electronic transaxle that needs attention so as to avoid further damage. It is a default positon called "limp-in mode" designed to allow the driver to get diagnosis with a minimum of internal parts in use. The fact that the speedo works means that the output speed sensor is OK, but that is only one of several dozen reasons for why it might be in "limp-in".
The first thing to do is have the memory of the controller readout with a diagnostic code reader to find out what the code number is which is associated with the problem, using a socket that is under the dash. An Autozone parts store will do that for free, or an independent shop will do it for about $40. Get the 4-digit fault code numbers that appear, ask what they mean, what might be the repair and for how many $. Then write back and we can compare that to what the shop manuals say about these numbers.
In the meantime check the fluid level in the trans on its separate dipstick and if it below the minimim level just add enough ATF +4 type fluid to get it to the minimum level. Low fluid can also produce a limp-in condition.
Roland
PS You can use the 'thank and rate' tab to get back to me if I am shown to be "maxed out". There is a comments section where you can enter a text response and I will be alerted promptly and get back to you via a follow-up answer.
Thanks Roland! I did venture to Murrys auto parts about an hour ago to get a code reader. I didnt open it until I got home and they sold me a book of what the codes were for 25 bucks! I am somewhat concerned about driving it to the parts store due to the insane drivers we have I might get run down. So I plan on picking up a ACTUAL CODE READER tomorrow. I must say, you know a whole lot more then the 6 employees who huddled around me at Murrys so I thank you and I will let you know tomorrow what I find. I have never had a car stump me in my 50 years but this one may be a first!
Hi Ken,
Give the ignition key a shot as a means of getting the code readout before buying a reader: turn it "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 changes to show any four digit numbers, which would be the fault codes. This works sometimes...
Otherwise a plug-in is needed
If so, let me know. And I would wonder how much use the book is going to be. You might want to return that and use the money for something else, but you be the judge.
Roland
---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------
QUESTION: Well with no luch changing out the output speed and the input speed sensor I decided to limp the cirrus to a Auto Zone to get a read out on the cods. After looking at what came out of the machine I think I better be looking for a for sale sign! :) Just kidding but it did have 4 codes that it spit out and this is what they were: P0700, P0731, P0733, P0715. Well thats it??!! My God the car only has 47,000 miles on it! But if you have any ideas, I'm all ears! I may have to be forced to take it into a shop! :(
AnswerHi Ken,
The 700 is generic and says basically there are other codes present.
the 731 and 733 says there are specific gear speed ratio errors, which can mean internal slippage, etc. that are not a good sign. However, the 715 states that there is still something wrong with the input (turbine) speed sensor function itself and suggests that you verify the wiring, and if that is not corrective, then the trans controller may be at fault. The wiring is basically the orange/yellow on pin 2 goes to pin 52 of the trans controller, and the dark blue/brown goes to pin 13. Check they are continuous and not shorted to ground. So as long as 715 is still 'current' I would not accept a rebuild as necessary.
Roland
