Automatic Gearbox Needs 6000rpm To Switch From 1st Gear!

[chrestomanci]

Hi all,

 

I have a 1999 2.3L Galaxy - automatic transmission. I can't describe the problem well, but basically, I can start it, shift to D - and the car doesn't move. If i rev _LOADS_, then the car starts inching forward, but takes quite some time before it switches gears to 2nd and 3rd - and even then, it sometimes gets stuck.

 

On the rare occasion that I get it going then it becomes really smooth - until I need to stop (say, at a roundabout). Then it's back to 1st gear, and back to crawling pace.

 

I've spoken (off-hand) to a mechanic who suggested I get the whole gearbox changed for £loads, but before doing so, I was wondering - is there something else I could get done which might solve it (a friend mentioned changing my gearbox oil, but the mech said this wouldn't make the slightest difference), or does this sound like a knackered gearbox?

 

I'm not really well-versed in cars - but any help you give me would be very much appreciated. 

[chrispb123456]

Firstly you need to check for diagnostic codes stored as this can help with diagnosis, fluid level is critical and changing fluid can help but the gearbox has a series of solenoid valves and associated wiring which may be your problem.

[chrestomanci]

Thanks for your prompt reply.

 

I wasn't aware I could get diagnostics off a t-reg. Would this give a comprehensive insight into the problem, or just basic stuff?

[chrispb123456]

You need to get the elm 327 interface to be able to connect to the Ford 2.3 engine, or use VCDS for everything but the engine.

Interface cables elm327 & Vagcom/VCDS lite available from ebay.

[chrestomanci]

Hmm. I just phoned my local, and he said it'd be £50 to scan the car, and then (if I need an oil change) and extra £80. Not sure if I want to spend that kind of money when the car's not guaranteed to be fixed.

 

I've tried searching the forums for similar problems to mine - but nothing came up. Is it really that rare?

[chrispb123456]

You can get your own diagnostic cable Vagcom/VCDS for less than £10 then connect to a laptop and read off your fault codes.

[amagnu2012]

same problem as me, after loads of BS quotes for replacement gearboxes, I did my own homework and it turned out to be the N92 solenoid, I replaced it n been fine ever since, http://forums.vwvortex.com/showthread.php?3469274#post42159730 check here for info. Btw its a pig of a job to do, very limited space.

[Steve_Mk1_2.3A]

Hi,

 

Scan the transmission with VAG-COM - the ELM reader won't do the gearbox. Look at the codes then come back here and post them to us complete. 1st & 3rd is normally LOS or low or no fluid! If the trans is in permanent LOS mode then clear the codes then immediately go for a drive - if it appears normal then wait until the fault occurs and scan again. If it is still the same after clearing the codes rescan and see if they've come back.

 

Common faults are the wiring by the big plug at the back of the battery and the loom to the g/b from the car - that breaks under stress and water gets into the g/b multi-plug that causes the symptoms you mention.

 

Scan and report back.

 

HTH

 

Steve