Need help

1996 saturn sl2,automatic.,fluids seem fine.
Have bad reverse slam,especially when warm,some jerking in forward shifts,the SES light goes on and off and a code from Auto Zone said gear2ratio.
Do i have a MAJOR problem.
Im 62 years old and will have to take this somewhere,just trying not to be ripped off...
Thanks!

Did I post this wrong?
I cant believe no one has responded....

Did I post this wrong?
I cant believe no one has responded....

This forum is not very active. There are only 2-4 of us who check it. Usually it doesn't happen until late at night. Patience is key :)

Miles on the car?

Unfortunately you have Reverse Slam Syndrome. It may be fixable, however the procedure is going to seem VERY odd if you print it out and bring it to a mechanic.

First you need to replace the Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor. Its a 10 dollar part at your local auto store. This one sensor controls many systems of the car including the transmission. A neighbor or relative can do this for you with a 13mm deep socket and 3/8'' ratchet. See if this helps the issue.

If this does not help then next is to do Wolfman's reverse slam Remedy. I have posted in other threads. I would print it out and perhaps have a neighbor or relative do it for you.

If none of this helps you will need to replace the Valve Body. I suggest getting it from a fellow Saturn owner called Special Forces. I can give you his contact info. He has sold many rebuilt valve bodies and has an excellent reputation. Personally I would go no where else for such a part. Expect to pay at least $150 then have a local shop put it in (or neighbor or relative).

The items I listed above are NOT hard to do and there are lots of video instructions for them.

Regardless, if you bring it to a local shop you MUST be firm in what you want. You need to be exact and precise. Most places will tell you that you need to do a tranny flush, PCM flash, Solenoid check, etc etc. This is NOT the case. Any of those things can makes the issue WORSE.

Unfortunetly I dont believe Ill be able to check this until friday (traveling to florida) however I believe this should help you get started to fix the issue.

Thanks so much RC...your reply was certainly worth waiting for!

I do have a couple people who may be able to do these things,so Im very grateful for the info.

The car has just about 50,000 miles.It was my moms.

Being a woman,not much money and in need of auto work is a scary thing,and as you know there are plenty of people who like to take advantage.....

Thanks again....

Ill post again when i get the work done......

In all the s cars that come in with this problem, it always turns out to be the valve body on the transmission, you get the valve body replaced, your problem goes away.