Nissan Repair: 1990 Nisson 240sx, nisson, wrecking yard

Question
Car started making noise (was told it was throwout bearing) few months ago. Had trouble few times shifting into gears (would upshift or downshift) and all was OK. When driving a few days ago the car made a loud whining noise and would not downshift to 2nd. I shifted 3rd and all was ok for 1/2 mile, then car totally locked up a 30 m.p.h. Did my transmission just go or do you think the engine is shot also? The car would not even start after this happened.

Answer
Monika,

Sounds like your transmission locked up.  Probably in two gears at once.  The engine should be fine.  But, the transmission needs to come out and be taken apart to inspect the damage.  At this point I am going to say a wrecking yard transmission will be the cheapest alternative since if yours locked up you have many internal parts that need replacement.  So, have it checked out and you might get lucky with it being stuck in two gears and just those parts might need replacement.  Email me back and let me know what the shop says.