Question-------------------------
Followup To
Question -
I have a 97 Chrysler that went into limp with the original DTC of a MAP sensor. We replaced the map sensor and it was still in limp mode after reseting the computer. I don't remember exactly what code it was but when we looked it up it said incorrect gear ratio with OBD II scanner that we rented. The LED on the care read 45 which according to the chiltons is an automatic transmission input DTC has been set in the transmission controller.
The car was fine before in went into limp because of the map sensor. Even after we erased the codes off of the computer they came right back. We don't know how to clear codes from the transmission or even figure out how to fix the problem if there is one.
The car is still being driven in town at under 30 mph. I don't know if it makes a difference but it used to disengage if you tried to go above 30 but now it just won't shift into the other gears. I really miss my car and I would be thrilled if you can help.
Answer -
Hi Mary,
There are two memories to read, one in the engine controller and one in the trans controller. The former can be read out with the ignition key or a code reader, the latter only with a code reader. I believe that there are in the '97 two seperate and different plugs to access the two memories, the former in the engine compartment the latter in the cabin (at the driver's end of the lower dash). I suspect that the codes on both memories will erase if the battery is disconnected for a few minutes but if the problem isn't repaired they will return quickly, along with a code 12 (battery power lost recently).
Your present issue appears to be related to a trans limp-in which it does in order to avoid any unnecessary damage and 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 two digit number stored in its memory. 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 an electrical or hydrualic pressure problem) OR if some mechanical damage is involved (but if that is suggested do 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 electrical or 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. 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.
Roland
P.S. A trans 45 code does not cause a limp-in, so it must have been something else. Also check the trans dipstick to make sure you have the proper level of Chrysler brand ATX fluid. If not, get a quart from a Chrysler dealer and add it slowly thru the dipstick tube until you reach just the indicated level. The trans dipstick is on the trans, on the side facing the front of the vehicle.
My husband does the mechanicing. He is pretty good at it but was not familiar with limp mode. Can you tell me where the plug is for the transmission. We have the Chiltons for my car and it says nothing about a seperate plug for the transmission. The OBD II said that the transmission had incorrect gear ratio. Do you know how we change the gear ratio in the transmission? In the chiltons it talks about the quick learn procedure but they say that you only need to do that if you have changed certain parts. I don't know for sure if the car is still in limp mode. I know it started out with a bad map sensor and after we changed it it was still acting the same way and reading incorrect gear ratio.
AnswerHi Mary,
In the Stratus and Cirrus it is located under the dash on the drivers side, next to the body controller/junction box.
It has 16 pins, 8 in each of two rows and the color of the plug is black. It is called the data link connector. It appears in that body that there is only 1 plug. I don't know which Chrysler model you have, however.
On the 'gear ratio' fault code, it typically means that the rotational speed of the turbine output sensor and the transmission output sensor do not agree with oneanother at the expected ratio for the specific "gear" in which the transmission is operating. This implies slippage internally which is typically due to an internal clutch problem. However a code 50, 51, 56, 57 or 58 might be due to a problem with one of the sensors or its ground circuit. Code 52, 53 or 54 is uniquely associated with a mechanical internal issue (which should be verified however as I described earlier) requiring removing and opening the trans for inspection and repair.
By the way, the 45 code readout from the engine controller memory may indeed mean that there is a code that has been recognized by the trans controller, but then you have to have the capability of reading the trans controller to find out which code it is (so I gave you a false interpretation of that when I first responded.) I don't have the manuals for other models of the '97 year so I can't say for certain where the data link connector is located, but I suspect it will be under the dash near the body computer/junction box.
Roland
