2002 Chrysler 300M...not running right??!!?
(2010-05-27 16:05:23) 1. Says: A few times my car has not started...when I turn the key all power comes on but there is no clicking, cranking, nothing. It won't start for a few tries and then it will finally start. Now today while driving I was pressing the gas and the RPMs went up but the car wouldn't go, then after a second or two it jerked and started going again...BUT there was a weird noise and then it would do it again. What is wrong??2. Says: Doesn't sound at all like limp mode to me. Limp mode will keep the transmission in 2nd gear, keeping the vehicle from going too fast to get it to a shop without causing other damage. Limp mode will not make it feel as though it's going into neutral, then slam back into gear.Sounds more like it might be low on fluid, or if the fluid is at the correct level, it isn't getting enough pressure to shift correctly. My thoughts are this is likely not connected with the starting issue, but it's always possible.
First thing to do is to check the transmission fluid, if it's low, add only ATF+4, DO NOT add Dexron, or any other fluid as the wrong fluid can cause slipping. The following web site is a listing of all Mopar-approved ATF+4 fluids: http://www.centerforqa.com/licensedatf4brands.html
If the fluid is full, take the vehicle to your local Dealership repair shop to have them diagnose the problem, it could still just be a less expensive repair than needing a re-man trans installed. The dealership will have the best training on your transmission, and will know how to fix it correctly, and when it can be fixed without needing a rebuild or re-man unit installed. Same can't be said for all independent repair shops, or transmission specialty shops, and even some of those that can tell will try to push a rebuild or re-man to get more money.
Finally, if you're told it needs to be rebuilt or replaced, you might consider getting a second opinion, especially if it was checked out at an independent repair or trans specialty shop. If it just needs repairs, then you can skip the rest of this information.
If it needs rebuilt or replaced, it's best to go with a re-manufactured unit over the rebuild. Sure, the cost is higher, but the warranty is much better and more solid than a rebuild. For a re-man unit, go with either a Mopar unit, or a Jasper unit. Price around, too, if you find out it needs a re-man unit, you can call some local shops who install Jasper units and get prices from them, you can also call other local or semi-local dealers and get prices from them for a re-manufactured unit installed.
In a rebuild, they will replace the noticeably worn or broken parts as well as the seals, gaskets and wear parts like the clutches. You rely on a technician to spot any damage to the hard parts, and not all damage is visible to the human eye. You'll get a 12 month 12k mile warranty on the parts that they replace. Chances are, if and when you have a problem with the rebuilt trans, it will be something other than what was replaced during the rebuild.
With a re-manufactured transmission, the transmission is torn apart at a facility that only does that type of work. All of the parts are checked for wear and cracks that may not be visible to the eyes. Anything that is not as good or better than manufacturer specs gets replaced along with all seals, gaskets, and wear parts. These should have a 3 year 100k mile warranty or better that has a nationwide warranty coverage. Any Dodge Chrysler or Jeep dealer can do warranty work on a Chrysler re-man trans, and any shop that installs Jasper units should be able to do warranty work for their transmissions.3. Says: Your descriptions sounds like a transmission problem. It is going into "limp-in" mode. Time to take it to a shop for diagnosis. Good luck. Tag: 2002 Chrysler 300M...not running right??!!?