Transmission not shifting

1998 DODGE AVENGER
152,000 MILES • 2.5L • 6 CYL • FWD • AUTOMATIC
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CHAVIS ZERBACH
  • MEMBER
  • 4 POSTS
Just bought this vehicle and it was running fine. Today it started making a whining noise and slipping out of gear. Got it home and now it barely stays in gear.
Sep 11, 2016 at 11:22 AM
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TY ANDERSON
  • ✓ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 719 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
Did you check the transmission fluid level? Is the condition of the fluid look red or more black/brown?
Is the check engine light on? If so, the code stored in the computer will help isolate the issue (most automotive places will scan the code for free).
Does the dealership offer a warranty with each vehicle they sale?

If the fluid level is good and there is no check engine light on, this sounds like a mechanical failure inside the transmission.
Sep 11, 2016 at 12:27 PM
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CHAVIS ZERBACH
  • MEMBER
  • 4 POSTS
Fluid level is good and a reddish brown, more red then brown. When I put it in gear it hesitates and after I hit the throttle it will go into gear. And the whining noise I also get in park for a short time.
Sep 11, 2016 at 2:19 PM
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TY ANDERSON
  • ✓ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 719 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
I would take the vehicle to a transmission shop. This is related to the transmission and revving the engine jars something loose or builds enough pressure to cause the transmission to shift/engage into gear.
Sep 11, 2016 at 5:12 PM
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