QuestionI Have A 1997 HYUNDAI SONATA .. I been having problems with it. When I drive it, it jerks, sometimes doesn't want to go in to reverse or dive. Is it my transmission or what .. I need to know exactly what it is so i can get the part.
AnswerHi, Brittnee. If you can move your gearshift into gear normally and the engine revs normally but the vehicle does not move, your problem is definitely related to the transmission.
You could potentially have a problem with the shift cable, range switch, low fluid, or a popped-out axle. It's more likely, however, that the problem is internal in the transmission and you'll need a transmission overhaul or replacement to resolve the issue.
Start with the things you can check yourself:
--Is the fluid level normal? If not, check for and repair any leaks and return the fluid to the proper level.
--When you attempt to drive the car, does the speedometer register zero, or does it indicate speed as if the car were moving? If it stays at zero, it's likely the problem is in your transmission. If it moves up, it's likely that the problem is with a popped-out axle.
--Does the shifter feel normal when you shift gears? If not, you may have a cable problem. If so, the problem is likely in the transmission.
If the signs are pointing toward a transmission, I'd recommend getting a professional diagnosis at your dealer. (I tend to not recommend transmission chains because they seem overly interested in selling transmission overhauls and replacements.) Whether we're looking at a transmission replacement or entire vehicle replacement to resolve the issue, an hour's labor for a definitive diagnosis will be very small compared to the potential expenditure you'll be making.
