why does my 2002 dodge intrepid's automatic transmission lose third and fourth gear?

Question

It regains third, and less often fourth gears after I stop, put it in park, and then resart the ignition. It only has 52k and is in fairly good mechanical shape. Is there an electronic component I could replace, ie. Transmission Control Module, or transaxle relay? I have had AT's gone bad in other cars and those cases involved slipping and engine racing, but the dodge has electronic controlled shifting, I believe, and the problem seems to be with the AT's shifting only. Also, could it cause damage if I continue to drive it?

the fluid level is correct and I have not noticed and burning smell and have not heard any gear grinding. Is there a way to tell (visually inspect) if the electronic components ar burned out?

It shifts normally for the first 10-20 minutes, then, it seems, after the temperature is hot, then it shifts into second and must be put in park and the ignition turned off then on. I can't afford a new transmission, but if I am doing further damage by driving I will stop. Wht 2 do?

Answer 1

This transmission IS computer controlled.
Does the "Check Engine" light illuminate when this occurs (or at all)?
this is most likely going to be a transmission repair shop job, BUT you can be a little better prepared if you can get by the local discount parts store, and ask the nice fellows there if they could please retrieve the DTCs retained in the PCM memory.
With the codes in hand, you can refer to the repair manual (available at the same parts store) or go here------>

http://www.obd-codes.com/trouble_codes/dodge/


...and locate the definitions listed.
then you will be able to communicate a little more intelligently with the service tech at the trans. shop.

Good Luck and Merry Christmas

Answer 2

Are the rpms up too high like in the 3,500 range most of the time , is the engine light on?If the engine light is on try pulling the mil codes by using the ignition turn it to the run position then to the ACC position then back to the run position do this 3 times and leave it in the run position.The engine light should flash say once then pause and flash twice in a row this is code and it just means that the battery was disconnected within the last 50-100 starts, code 55 means ends of the stored codes. Hope that helps and best of luck.By the way be sure that you check the transmission fluid correctly read the owners manual.I own one of those vehicles and if you require anymore help or advice feel free to contact me.

Answer 3

Could be the belts in the tork converter in the transmission. When mine gets hot, it won't go at all.