2000 Caravan Transmission intermitted problem

[punjabiyaar]

Hi,

I just bought this Caravan, has 177000 Kms on it, Problem I am facing is, It does not shifts into Third gear always, Sometimes it does and most of the times it does not. Everything seems fine when it does shifts properly but when it does not, I need to push around 3500 RPM to get speed of 80 Kms.

Van saw a mechenic today and he said the usual thing "transmission is about to go". When he hooked up his computer it said "Solenoid Circuit Error" and told me that we are looking at 200 - 300 Dollars.

I see no "check engine" light after starting engine, and when key is in "ON" position (Not started) only "Oil" light remains there.

It definitely has an oil leak near transmission he said a Side Plate is rusty and developed tiny holes in it and Some silicon work is not good near solenoid.

What do you guys think.

[RIP]

First, if it won't shift past second gear, the tranny is locked in "limp mode". Limp mode is there for a reason, to limit damage to a failing transmission and to enable you to get it to a shop to get it repaired before it granades. If you want to make sure you'll be buying a new transmission keep pressing it to get up to speed.

Not sure what 200-300 CDN is in dollars but sounds reasonable. Sounds like your mechanic wants to change the solenoid pack because of the code he saw. Again, makes sense. In the US a solenoid pack can be had for $150. Takes about two hours to change so $300 is well in the comfort zone.

There are scanner codes also called "P" codes you see with a normal OBD scanner then there are transmission specific codes you see only with a transmission specific scanner. Many of those codes won't light the SES light.

Sure wouldn't hurt to let the tech change the tranny fluid and filter. Insist on ATF+4 fluid only! No Dexron with an additive.