1994 Chrysler Le Baron Won't shift out of 2nd

FAIRYMAY

MEMBER
1994 CHRYSLER LE BARON

Transmission problem
1994 Chrysler Le Baron 6 cyl Two Wheel Drive Automatic

We bought this from my sister in law for $200, and we had to replace the serpentine belt and the tensioner, and once that was fixed, it started staying in 2nd gear. At first all we had to do was turn it off and back on, and it would shift again. We took it to a reputable mechanic shop, and they checked some sensor (not sure what it is), and the wiring, and finally replaced the TCM. It worked fine for about three days, but when I headed to work this morning it was stuck in 2nd again. Is there anything else we could check? We also tried unhooking the battery for about ten minutes to see if it would reset the system, and it didn't. The transmission fluid is fine, as well as the oil.

Please help! We've already spent $400 dollars trying to fix the $200 car, and we can't afford to spend much more, and really can't afford to buy another one!

1 Reply

SCH3P

MEMBER
1 POST

I have the exact same problem. All around, its a good car except it wont shift out of second like yours. Theres a little trick I read on a forum that worked a couple of times for me.
All you do is put the key in the ignition but dont turn on the vehicle. Turn the key until you get the first click where the dash lights remain off. Wait a couple of seconds then start it up. Worked the very first time for me. I noticed that my car shifts real smooth into drive and reverse if done correctly. Hope this helps.