Chrysler Repair: 96 LHS Transmission Code P0736 - Reverse Ratio Incorrect, differential diagnosis, reverse gears

Question
Driving down road and stopped to backup - put transmission into reverse and car didn't move.  Car will go forward in low and drive (won't shift).  Code is P0736 - Reverse Ratio Incorrect - is this an expensive repair (rebuild) or a common repair which can be fixed by a Chrysler dealer?
Note: 190K miles

Answer
Hi Mike,
First, did you check the fluid level in transmission? If you need to add, use ATF +3 of +4 only and don't overfill.
The 0736 code may well mean a clutch problem inside the trans that requires "rebuild". But also with this particular code there is the possibility of it being a faulty turbine speed sensor or output speed sensor. But against that is the fact that the same clutch is used for both low and reverse gears. Actually you are now in 'limp in' mode which uses only 2nd gear as that requires the least parts and is protective against further damage. A fairly simple test can ascertain whether the clutch is indeed bad but that should be done at a shop that has the test tool to measure the input/output sensors. Alternatively, you could buy and replace the turbine sensor (assuming that the output sensor is OK, see below) and if that doesn't change things it pretty much dictates a need for rebuild. You have done extremely well to get to 190k miles with the electronic transaxle. My suspicion is that the low/reverse clutch is out and so will need a rebuild. You might find out the cost of the sensor, but it in yourself and see if that corrects things. Or you might find the labor cost of the differential diagnosis of clutch as compared to sensor failure, and then decide which way to spend the money. If the speedometer seems to be reading accurately that would pretty much dismiss the possibility of the output sensor being faulty.
Those are my ideas about your situation.
Roland