Chrysler Repair: Sebring stalling & transmission slipping, engine stall, engine controller

Question
I just purchased a 95 Sebring and the same day I broght it home it stalled out as I was slowing down while getting off the highway.  I went to get it a couple hours later and it started up.  This happened to me again a couple days later while I was driving.  I then parked it in the garage and test drove it a couple weeks later and when I put in in reverse it did not want to go.  I kept having to step on the gas to get it to go.  Do you have any idea what this can be?  Also if you think the stalling and the transmission problems are related.  Thanks.

Answer
Hi Lisa,
I don't think the stalling and the unwillingness to go in reverse (and does it also refuse to go foward or not?) are related. I would try to deal with each separately. On the engine stall: The most useful thing to do would be to try to get the fault codes that are likely stored in the engine controller memory to readout. Try using the ignition key: turn it "on-off-on-off-on" and leave it "on" (doing this quickly, no longer than 5 seconds). Then watch the 'check engine' light to begin flashing, then pause, flashing, pause, etc. Count the number of flashes before each pause and keep track of the numbers. Repeat the readout and verify the counts are correct. Then group them in pairs in the order that they came out, thus forming two digit numbers. You may notice that the pause is shorter between the digits of a given number, and longer between the numbers themselves. Then send me a 'follow-up' question telling me the results of your readout. By the way, 55 will be the last number (two groups of 5 flashes each) and that is the code for "end of readout".
I have may have the troubleshooting manual for the engine and we can look up the possibilities of what is wrong based upon what fault codes you show. Tell me which engine you have (4 or V-6, and what size?)
There is also an essay on fault codes at the site:
http://www.allpar.com/fix/codes.html
which gives the meaning of the code numbers. But then you need to get specific info for what exactly might be the diagnostic tests or parts to replace to complete the repair. And that is where I can give you some help.
On the trans, have you checked the fluid level on the trans dip stick after it has warmed up by being driven (if it will move, or at least idled for 10 minutes)? If it is low get some Chrysler brand fluid from the dealer and add it to the trans via the dipstick tube. But don't over fill it.
There is also an ability for the trans controller to detect why it is isn't functionning properly but you have to get the codes readout at a dealer or a good independent (not franchise) trans shop. It could be a problem with a clogged filter, or with a dirty valve body which can be fixed without removing the trans. Or, it could be an internal worn out part that requires an expensive rebuild. But don't panic. Just check the fluid level. Then if that doesn't correct it, getting the codes readout out for maybe $75 and an estimate based on that of the repair would be good to get. If you do that, get the codes and the estimate in writing, then get back to me with the results and we'll compare that with the Chrysler shop manual that I have. I suspect you have the 4 speed automatic (with both a D and and an OD choice on the shifter). If not and you just have a D position let me know that and forget the readout because that 3 speed automatic does not have an electronic controller that stores fault codes.
Roland