transmission shifting

ANSWER : The check engine light could mean diagnostic codes related to the transmission failure are available. If you request a check engine light diagnostic a mechanic could see if relevant codes have set and narrow the diagnostic for you. Check to be sure that there is adequate fluid. Check to be sure that the manual lever (shift lever) on the transmission reaches the correct position when you select "D" or "R". If you can’t move in any gear, the problem is not likely to be the solenoids because failure of the solenoids will still allow operation in "some" gears, if the gear is manually selected. If the solenoids failed, such would also result in a code being output because the TCM performs continuous circuit integrity testing on the solenoids. You can test that part separately in any event. There is a 164 page repair manual, with all the diagnostics, that you can use to pinpoint and repair the issue. However, if you just want a diagnostic, you can request a transmission diagnostic – failure to shift and the responding certified mechanic will pinpoint the issue. If you have further questions or concerns, do not hesitate to re-contact YourMechanic as we are always here to help you.

ANSWER : Hi There,
This may be an issue related to the communication of the PCM and the TCM (Transmission control module). As you may know, the TCM relies on the PCM to transmit information related to RPM’s, which the TCM then uses to determine when to direct the transmission to shift. The transmission control module has various sensors such as vehicle speed sensors, wheel speed sensors, throttle position sensors, turbine speed sensor, and transmission fluid temperature sensors that all direct information to it in order for it to perform it’s function. Other functions controlled by the TCM are components such as a kick down switch, traction control system, and cruise control module. Any of these may also affect the way the transmission control module performs and controls the transmission and the shifting of your vehicle. I would suggest having a professional from Your Mechanic come to your location to properly diagnose your transmission problem.

ANSWER : Many different faults can cause the vehicle to shift roughly. The most common would be low fluid level in the transmission, transmission mounts, the torque converter, or one of the shift solenoids. If you’d like to get this checked before moving forward with a repair, a qualified technician, such as one from YourMechanic, will be able to diagnose your shifting issue and perform any repairs required.

ANSWER : It is very possible that the transmission may require a full rebuild or a replacement in order for it to perform properly. Although you are able to shift into other gears, if certain gears are not working correctly, transmission damage may be the cause.

If the transmission has already been diagnosed by the dealer that it needs replacement and the transmission is still not shifting properly, it is unlikely that the transmission will get any better without replacement.

It does not hurt to attempt any reset procedure that may be available, but it is also unlikely that a reset of any kind will resolve transmission issues. Small things to check before replacing the transmission if possible would be the fluid level and any trouble codes that may have been stored due to the issue your transmission is causing.

If any codes exist, this may lead you to other possible parts inside the transmission that may be able to be replaced and have your transmission working again as it should. You can get a second opinion from an local expert, such as one from YourMechanic, in order to diagnose your shifting problem and advise you on the next steps.

ANSWER : It is very possible that you could have some internal transmission damage. I would recommend enlisting in the assistance of a qualified transmission professional to inspect your transmission for internal faults. I must warn that this could be a pricy inspection as it may involve the removal and disassembly of the transmission. However, this is a sure fire way to determine if any internal damage has occured. The good news is that if any damage has occured, it can easily be resolved at that time since the transmissoin has already been disassembled.

ANSWER : Hi there. Based on what you have written above, it is highly probable that the inner linkage has come loose or there is an obstruction within the inner gear set that is causing your problem. Unfortunately, this typically requires dropping the transmission and repair or inspection from the inside. This is not a service our mobile mechanics are equipped to offer, so your best bet is to contact a local transmission specialist for assistance.

ANSWER : The best advise to help prolong the life of this transmission is to service it regularly. Make sure you also service the engine cooling system on a regular basis since the transmission cooler is in the radiator. If you are in a warm climate or tow on a regular basis, look into getting an additional external transmission cooler installed. The transmission will run cooler and have less chance of heat-related failures. I also recommend you have a check up on the transmission before any warranty expires. Service any new transmission for the first time at 20,000 miles and every 30,000 miles after that.

ANSWER : Hello. If servicing the fluid and filter did not help, then it may be possible that the transmission is worn. If any of the clutch packs that the transmission uses to shift wear out, they may slip and cause harsher shifting than normal. If the problem only occurs when the transmission is cold, then it may be possible that the clutch discs are worn, but can properly grip when the transmission and fluid reach operating temperature. I would recommend double checking the fluid for any signs of damage or wear, any unusual smells or color. If the fluid checks out. If you need help having this looked at, I would then move on to having the shifting issue diagnosed to see if the transmission may be faulty.