Hyundai Repair: 2000 Hyundai Accent, automatic transaxle, backyard mechanic

Question
I am looking at a great deal on a 2000 Hyundai with Automatic Transaxle (90,000 miles). Reverse does not work at all. It shifts hard from 1st to 2nd and won't shift to 3rd.  I carefully test drove it today.  I noticed that engine warm in neutral the transmission fluid was only to the 2nd of four marks on the dipstick.  Could this be the entire problem?  Are the transaxles serviceable by an amateur backyard mechanic?  The $800 will eat up most of my available money, so I will need some level of confidence that it is repairable.

Answer
Presuming you're checking the transmission fluid cold, running in neutral on level ground, the second mark is where the fluid level should be.  It should be between marks 1 and 2 when cold, and between 3 and 4 when hot.  Regardless, being on the second mark isn't low enough to cause the symptoms you describe.

While it's possible the issue is with the range switch or the shift cable, those scenarios aren't very likely.  The transmission likely needs to be overhauled or replaced.  Even if you're able to replace the transmission yourself-- the subframe will need to be removed-- you can expect to pay about $1000 for a remanufactured transmission.  A used transmission may even be more than you'd like to spend.  

From what you've told me, you're porbably better off letting this car be someone else's problem.