The transmission is going into "limp-in" mode. This happens when the transmission computer detects a problem. It will keep it in second gear and record a diagnostic fault code. The transmission computer tells the engine computer there's a problem so the engine computer turns on the Check Engine light.
You'll need a hand-held computer called a scanner to read the fault code(s). As a general rule, if it defaults to second gear right after starting the engine and shifting into drive, suspect a sensor problem. If the transmission starts out in first gear, then stays or goes into second gear right after an upshift, suspect slippage in one of the clutch packs.
caradiodoc
Feb 26, 2010 at 7:33 AM
