Transmission stuck in third gear

2008 MAZDA CX-7
130,000 MILES • 2.3L • 4 CYL • AUTOMATIC
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KENNYGFORLIFE
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
In the morning, the car engages well but after few minutes of driving it gets stuck at third gear. If parked and restarted, it will start from the third gear until allowed to cool down after many hours but the moment engine is hot, it gets stuck at the third gear.
Nov 3, 2019 at 2:27 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 110,246 POSTS
Hi:

It sounds like the system is going in to what is known as limp mode. The vehicle's computer will do this to protect itself in the event of a problem. Basically, it allows the driver to "limp" to a safe location.

Can you tell me if the check engine light is staying on when the engine is running? Have you checked for diagnostic trouble codes.

Let me know.

Joe
Nov 5, 2019 at 3:34 AM
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STRAILER
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 55,548 POSTS
This guide will help you get the codes:

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

This guide can help as well:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/reduced-power-limp-mode

Please run down these guides and report back.
Nov 5, 2019 at 7:02 AM
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