Suddenly today it would not shift into higher gears?

JESSICA.CRANSTON

MEMBER
2005 HYUNDAI ACCENT
4 CYL
AUTOMATIC
95,000 MILES

I have only had it for a few days and suddenly today it would not shift into higher gears. It is an automatic but at 40km/hr the rpm's are at 4-5 and won't drop down/ wont shift up. After a few minutes my check engine light came on. What's wrong and what should I do?I tried shifting into neutral but that didn't fix anything.

1 Reply

SQM

MECHANIC
6,383 POSTS

Hello,

Any time there is a shifting issue, the first item needs to be checked is the transmission fluid. Low or dirty fluid can impact the way it shifts.
So makes sure the fluid is at correct level and in condition.
Sometimes shifting issue can be triggered by clogged transmission filter.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-service-an-automatic-transmission

Since the check engine light is illuminated, it will be a good idea to scan and retrieve the error code(s). As you know faulty transmission can trigger the check engine light.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/checking-a-service-engine-soon-or-check-engine-light-on-or-flashing

Take a look at this article, it covers the typical issues for automatic transmissions:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/automatic-transmission-problems

Besides low fluid or clogged filter, this could be due to a faulty shift solenoid or a faulty transmission fluid pump among other things. I do think getting the code(s) can help with the diagnostics.

Please let me know if you have any questions.
Thank you.

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