Chrysler Repair: 94 Concorde speedometer & Trans problem, speddo, shaft speed

Question
I bought a a 94 Concorde from an insurance auction that was in a minor front end accident. I have repaired all the damage and it runs and looks good but the transmission is stuck in limp mode wont shift out of second. The speedometer also does not work and all the shift indicator lights come on shortly after the engine starts. I have tried a different transmission module and different instrument cluster. Would a defective speed sensor making the speddo not work cause the transaxle to be stuck in limp mode? Is there any way I can disable limp mode without a special tool?

Answer
Hello Robert,
Yes a defective output shaft speed sensor on the the transmission will cause the speedo to fail (it needs that signal), and of course it is likely to cause a defect in the operation of the trans axle too because it needs that info to shift properly. So you could try replacing that sensor and see what happens. But whether that is the sole reason for the transaxle problem of being in limp-in mode is uncertain to me. In and case, 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 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 a hydrualic pressure problem) OR if some mechanical damage is involved (but follow that up 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.
So that is my best advice, go to a dealer/independent and ask for a diagnostic readout and 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, 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.
I don't know of anyway to get around the limp-in mode because it is designed to protect the tranny from damage.
Roland