Mitsubishi Repair: 1992 Eclipse Transmission Problem, electronic control modules, worst case scenario

Question
My son has a 92 Mitsubushi Eclipse GS with a 2.0L, Auto transmission. The transmission went out and we had it replaced. After the mechanic put the "good" replacement tranny in, it is stuck in what he calls "limp mode" in that it won't change gears. It goes in reverse but is stuck in 2nd gear for any forward motion and he wants nothing to do with it anymore. We have tried 2 other "good" Tranny electronic control modules with the same results. If you know, what is the problem and how do I fix it? Thanks for your help!

Mike

Answer
Mike,
I have seen this problem with a few cars.  Even dealership mechanics get stumped and end up trying installing brand new transmissions; sometimes several.  Many times, it's simply a loose eletrical harness connection.  But that's only if you're lucky.

If it's not a simple electrical problem, it may be a low fluid or cable linkage problem.  These things are relatively easy to fix.  Worst case scenario is that the transmission is faulty.  Your tranny may have a faulty clutch or faulty bands.  Yes, automatic transmissions do have clutches.  The bands are what are used to engage/disengage the various gears.  Since each gear's operation depends on its associated clutch and band (if so equipped), it's probable one of them is causing this problem.  The reason why your mechanic may want nothing to do with it anymore is because checking for worn bands or faulty clutches requires a complete teardown of the tranny.  Not an easy, pleasant or quick process.

A mechanic that gets irritated by his own work and professes 'he wants nothing to do with it anymore' is NOT a good mechanic.  Unfortuntately for him, he may be obligated to fix what ever problem is occuring with this new tranny if written somewhere in a contract; i.e. a receipt for the labor and parts cost.  Check ALL paper work dealing with this repair and see if he is still obligated to fix it at no additional cost to you.  You may want to have a lawyer read over some of the 'fine print' in case it's too involved.  If he obligated to fix it, but still doesn't want to, you have every right to get your money back; at least for the labor cost.  

If the mechanic can get away without having to honor his work or parts, report his garage to the Better Business Bureau, your local Chamber of Commerce, and tell all your friends, families, and co-workers not to get their vehicles serviced there.  Mechanics and service garages like that should not be allowed to operate.  Then, find yourself another transmission specialist in your area that is familiar with your make/model of car.  
Good luck!