QuestionHello Mr. Finston, how are you? I have a 1990 automatic Chrysler New Yorker Fifth Avenue (3.3 engine) and I have some problems with the transmission. At first, the car sometimes didn't want to shift to the high gear. If I had to reduce the speed for turning or stopping when it was ready to shift to the high gear then it would not shift but if I turned my car off and started driving again, it would. A couple of months ago it just didn't want to shift the high gear at all, so I can't drive my car on the freeway because since Im driving on 2nd gear, it gets hot and it cuts off. I checked the transmission fluid and it was ok so I don't know what could be wrong and I would like to see if you can help me in giving me an idea of what could be wrong or how to fix it. Thanks for your time.
AnswerHello Francisco, I am fine, thank you.
On the trans problem, I will respond by giving you something I wrote recently to another Chrysler owner with the same problem:
"I believe that your electronic transmission is in a condition known as "limp-in mode" which it does when it has detected a problem which will cause further damage to the unit unless so-protected by locking out the other gear settings.
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 well 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. The place has to have a code reader with the 6-pin body link adapter plug that mates with the Chrysler-type transmission readout plug. That plug is under the dash on the driver side. 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."
Other than that, you might also want to verify that the fluid level in the trans is correct. Only use Chrysler brand fluid if you need to add any via the trans dipstick tube. Let me know what happens.
Roland
