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Limp home mode

Tiny
JOHNSONSTEPHEN31029
  • MEMBER
  • 1998 MERCEDES BENZ SLK230
  • 1.8L
  • 4 CYL
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 245,000 MILES
I was coming home from work one day, and it felt like the transmission slipped into neutral. I coasted to the stop sign, and put it in park and turned the car off. Restarted, tried reverse, it worked, tried drive and it worked. So I pulled out and started down the road. The car would not get out of second gear. I originally thought first gear because it never shifted. It starts in second and stays there. I guess its limp mode. Any ideas?
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Saturday, February 9th, 2019 AT 7:35 AM

1 Reply

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,747 POSTS
Hi and thanks for using 2CarPros.

When the vehicle runs in limp mode, the computer has identified a problem and is trying to protect the vehicle. Now, many different things can cause it to be in this mode. It can be engine or transmission related. I assume the check engine light is staying on when the vehicle is running, so you first need to have the computer scanned to retrieve diagnostic trouble codes. This will get us started in the diagnostic process.

Here is a video that shows how to use a scanner:

https://youtu.be/YV3TRZwer8k

I realize most people don't own a scanner. However, this is where we need to start. With that in mind, if there is a nationally recognized parts store close that you can get the vehicle to, often times they will scan it for free. However, confirm that before making the trip. If the car can't be driven or there isn't one close enough, see if a parts store will lend or rent you a scanner.

Once you get the trouble codes, let me know what they are and I can further help.

Let me know what you find or if you have other questions.

Take care,
JOe
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Saturday, February 9th, 2019 AT 10:41 PM

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