Question My wife and I just purchased a 2004 Town & Country van. It has 29000 miles. Whe it changes gears from first to second, it makes jerk. This happens about fifty percent of the time. And only at that gear change. Can you help?
Thanks for any advise that you may render in advance.
Larry Conger Sr.
AnswerHi Larry,
The possible reasons range widely:
hydraulic fluid level low (check dipstick after warmed up, engine idling in neutral, use Chrysler recommended fluid only, but don't overfill; add thru dipstick pipe)
Fluid filter clogged, internal pump pressure low, valve body malfunction (these are serviceable without removing the transmission, which should be explored before allowing that more expensive type repair to happen)
Internal mechanical damage (costly repair, do you qualify for the warranty which certainly still is in effect?)
There is an electronic controller of the transmission and it can recognize malfunctions and store a code number as to what the possible causes are in its memory. That is probably the most efficient way to figure what is the cause is if not the simple fluid level issue. Chrysler/Dodge dealers have the up-to-date reader and programs, so that would be the first thing to do: have the transmission controller readout for fault codes. Ask what the code number(s) is (are), what it means, what is the repair that needs to be done, and what is the cost, and is it under warranty? Then if you aren't satisfied with the proposal write me back with that info and we can compare what they say with what the manual says.
Roland
