QuestionI have a 1995 Dodge Intrepid and the transmisson is either stuck in gear or wont shift i cant feel the car when it is supposed to shift so i belive its stuck in gear when driving and i heard it could be sensor problems,fluid,or the computer itself. Ive also been told it needs a new tranny by a mech. but i just think its running in (limp mode) i just wanna double check and get a third opinon. Id appreciate any help you can send me thank you.
AnswerHi Adam,
There are a couple of dozen reasons for the trans sticking in 2nd gear. This limp-in mode is designed to protect it against damage.
It allows the car to be driven at moderate speed to a garage for analysis. The transmission controller logs the problem as a two digit number stored in its memory. The transmission controller does not have a self-read capability as does the engine controller so you can't use the ignition switch to get the codes.
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 $60), 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. The place has to have a code reader with the adapter plug that mates with the Chrysler-type transmission readout plug. So inquire whether that is true, if you don't go to a dealer shop. 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.
Of course you should check the level of fluid in the trans via the dipstick on the driver side of the trans. But I would not assume you need a rebuild without a readout.
Roland
