1998 Plymouth Voyager Won't Shift

PLYMOUTH VOYAGER
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JULLYA
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  • 2 POSTS
I have a 1998 Plymouth Voyager van with 95,000 miles and a transmission problem. I have already replaced the transmission once. The van won't shift out of 2nd to higher gears. Also, the valve cover gaskets have been leaking oil for a long time. After checking van out, the mechanic gave me an estimate for $2200 to rebuild transmission. When I declined, he later told me it could be a less costly computer problem but no guarantees. What would be a reasonable sale price for van as is or should I try another shop to see if it might be a less expensive solanoid problem or something?
May 5, 2006 at 2:12 PM
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VANDRAGON
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 298 POSTS
with two trans in 95,000 miles i would think it would just be the input speed sensor. go to another shop or even some parts stores will scan for codes. as for the oil leaks, try to tighten the bolts down some. it sounds like the mechanic you talked to would love to talk you out of your car. get a second look even a third......good luck....vandragon

show me an honest mechanic and i'll show you a god fearing man!
May 6, 2006 at 9:19 AM
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JULLYA
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Vandragon, thanks so much. I was stranded without a car for several days, but after your input, I went to my dealer and said that if my transmission problem on my Plymouth Voyager 1998 required a rebuild, it wasn't worth it to repair it, but if it was something simple like needing a new speed sensor, I would. Well, I surprisingly got a call an hour later, that it was the sensor and it would cost a total of $160. The dealer was not the original place I got the $2200 estimate from. Thank you!! You saved me a ton of money and trouble.
May 11, 2006 at 3:46 PM
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VANDRAGON
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 298 POSTS
glad to have helped. isn't it nice when we work together and help each other. have a really great day....vandragon
May 12, 2006 at 3:00 AM
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Suggested Repair

Have the transmission scanned for codes and check the input speed sensor before authorizing a rebuild. A second opinion confirmed the sensor was the fault and cost about $160. Also tighten the valve cover bolts to address the oil leak.

Conversation Summary

A 1998 Plymouth Voyager with 95,000 miles would not shift out of 2nd, and a shop estimated $2,200 to rebuild the transmission after one prior replacement. Valve cover gaskets were also leaking. An expert suggested the input speed sensor, a code scan, and a second opinion, plus tightening the valve cover bolts. The owner went to a dealer, which found a failed speed sensor and repaired it for $160.

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