Chrysler Repair: transmission, chrysler grand voyager, franchise type

Question
chrysler grand voyager SE
2000
80K + miles

When I shift from reverse to drive, it does not always go into gear.  it started one or two months ago. Now it seems to be getting worse


Answer
Hello Gary,
The reasons for the delayed shift are several ranging from very simply being low on transmission fluid, to minor adjustment of the gear shift mechanism, to minor maintenance such as changing the transmission fluid filter, to repairs that don't require removing the trans (fluid pump replaced, valve body cleaned), to serious internal damage requiring a removal and disasembly (could cost $2,000). These transmissions are sophisticated electronically controlled units that need to be maintained to avoid unnecessary maintenance costs. I would begin by checking the dipstick after warming up the van and driving it a bit, then put the trans in Park with the engine idling and see if the level is in the cross-hatched zone for "hot" fluid. If you need to add, get the fluid from a Chrysler dealer as the units are finicky about what fluid they work with. If that looks normal you might then do well to go to a dealer or an independent trans shop (but not a franchise type) with a good reputation to discuss changing the fluid filter and checking for any debris in the drain pans (which is a bad sign of internal damage) and checking the adjustment of the shift lever.  
An alternative is to have the trans's electronic controller read out for any fault codes it may have stored after recognizing a malfunction in the unit. That is a simple task (but ask how much they charge before authorizing it, and verify that the shop has a unit for reading the trans codes as all shops may not be so-equipped) done with a diagnostic readout box, and the codes, if any, are clues as to why you have this problem. If you do that, ask for the code numbers, and for a diagnosis and estimate of repair costs. I have a manual that we can check this information against to verify that the proposal is appropriate.
Take it step-by-step and don't panic.
Roland