Questionmy 99 dodge stratus breeze won't shift into o/d unless put into park. please help thanks. lois
AnswerHi Lois,
There is some uncertainty for me in that there is a standard fault mode called "limp-in" which causes the trans not to shift out of 2nd into a higher gear, where as you seem to be saying it will shift into 3rd but not OD.
But in any case the best thing to do is get a readout of the transmission controller for the presence of any code numbers that tell what is at fault.
You may be able to get the codes with your ignition key: "on-off-on-off-on and leave on" doing this in5 seconds or less. Then watch the odometer window to see if and codes appear in place of the mileage reading. If so write back with the numbers. Otherwise, it will require that you get a readout with a readout box which maybe can be done for free at an Autozone parts store. If not then a dealer or an independent trans shop. Here is a standard answer for the case of the limp-in situation:
"It sounds like your electronically controlled transaxle has detected some problem with the unit and in order to avoid any unnecessary damage has gone into "limp-in" mode which means it won't shift out of 2nd gear. It allows the car to be driven at moderate speed to a garage for analysis. The transmission controller logs the problem as a four-digit number stored in its memory. The transmission controller may not have a self-read capability as does the engine controller so you may not be able to use the ignition switch to get the codes, but give it a try.
The dealer or a competent transmission shop should have a readout unit to find out what the code number is and from that they can make some conclusions about whether the trans can be repaired without being removed from the car (for example a electrical or hydrualic pressure problem) OR if some mechanical damage is involved (but follow-up a "mechanical damage" diagnosis by dropping the oil pans and looking for debris to be present or not) which if true would require a pretty expensive rebuild, I am sorry to say. No debris in the pans would suggest the possibility of an hydraulic problem only.
So that is my best advice, go to a dealer/independent and ask for a diagnostic readout of the transmission controller and an estimate for repairs. Get the code number(s), and if you like, write back with a 'follow-up' question to me and we can compare what you are told with what the shop manual says is the problem of that code, and then decide if you are getting the correct advice. You don't have to give them a blank check, just ask for a diagnostic readout, the code numbers and the repair estimate. It will cost something to get that done (should be under $100), but the more information you have before going forward the better. I would not go to a franchise-type (AAMCO) transmission shop, but rather an independent with a good reputation or a Chrysler dealer. If you go ahead with the repair, the cost of the diagnosis is often credited against the repair cost. But don't rush to judgement because a total rebuild costs about $1,500 so you don't want to authorize that unless it is the only possibility."
Roland
