1995 Saturn SL1 Problem with transmission/electrical

93,000 MILES • 4 CYL • FWD • AUTOMATIC
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BOB/335
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Two days ago my son told me the battery light was staying on.
Last night he told me that there was no power stepping on the gas from a stop (and some bucking ???)

I took it for a ride this morning. Started out in reverse to back up. Took off and I thought it was running really good. Stop sign and a let turn/ no problems. Red light and a left turn/ no problems.
Drove a straight mile and it was running beautifully. I was wondering what the heck he was talking about.
Aprroaching a red light I was stopping as I turned on my right signal. Immediately the radio went off and then back on for a second and then back off and stayed off. As I was wondering what just happened, the light turned green and I stepped on the gas and I had no power. It very slowly got up to speed. The engine sounded fine. I turned around and still no power. As I got up to speed I kicked it down a bit and NO passing gear.
I pulled over and started from a dead stop and payed close attention. I have no power because it seems to be starting from second gear. Listening closely and I don't hear or feel it shifting at all. Just staying in second gear.

I also noticed after this that it now bangs hard when shifting into reverse.

The radio hasn't come back on.

This radio was just installed a few weeks ago by the previous owner. (My nephew's kid)
Sep 6, 2010 at 2:23 AM
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SATURNTECH9
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First of all thank you so much for your donation.The first thing you need to do is test your alternator a bad one will cause everything you described.I would also test your battery if the alternator test's bad let me know and i will get you instruction's on replacing it.
Sep 6, 2010 at 2:57 AM
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BOB/335
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Louie,

Thanks for such a prompt reply.
Since my son was already complaining of the battery indicator light coming on and staying on PRIOR to the more recent problem, I assumed that there was a connection and had planned to check the battery and alternator. (Guess I should have done that today)

I never would have guessed that the transmission shifting is electrically controlled to the point that a low performing battery or alternator would affect it to that extreme.

I will let you know what happens. Thanks again!!!

Bob
Sep 6, 2010 at 11:33 AM
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SATURNTECH9
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With low battery input the transmission will slip in and out of gear.Let me know what you find and i will get you the information you need.
Sep 6, 2010 at 2:19 PM
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BOB/335
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Turns out my problem was a bad battery AND a bad alternator. The car is running fine now. Thanks!

Bob Goodwin
Sep 12, 2010 at 9:49 PM
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SATURNTECH9
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 30,869 POSTS
Glad to hear you have it all figured out that's what we like to hear.Thanks for using 2carpros.
Sep 13, 2010 at 4:21 AM
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