Expert: Roland Finston - 6/30/2011

Question
Several things are happening. The engine light is on because of some emmision problem that the dealer said wasn't worth fixing for the price. Then the air stopped working. We thought it was the belt but when we replaced it and tried turning the car on the compressor seized up and shut the car down. Then the battery started to go dead and after having charged it a couple of times replaced it. That was about a month or two ago. Then when taking off it makes a clunk sound and won't go out of 2nd gear even at 50 mphs. It happened two days in a row and hasn't happened since and it's been a week. We pulled the codes at auto-zone and they said there is a problem with the transmission module, Chrysler said we can't replace just the tran module and we need a powertrain module at the tune of $562.00. And we were told from a different place it would be $200 to $300 just to program the module. Could all this be related and do these prices seem reasonable? I found on line a place that sells the powertrain module preprogrammed for $225. It seemed pretty easy to replace but don't know if I believe it is preprogrammed. What's involed in the preprogramming of a module? If you can help, I'd appreciate it!!!

Answer
Hi Maria,
To give you knowledgeable advice I need a bit more information.
What was the emission problem that causes the check engine light? Do you know the fault code number which would tell us exactly?
The AC issue is separate so let's set that aside.
The battery issue is apparently resolved.
The transmission does have a fault as evidenced by its not shifting up from 2nd gear. This is called 'limp mode' and is a self-protective strategy to prevent damage until the fault can be fixed.
I would like to know the code numbers specifically related to the transmission module. Can you tell me that, and if not would you be able to get them read again and then tell me the number#s#?
I have not seen anywhere that the powertrain module has to be replaced when you replace a trans module unless there is also a code that faults the powertrain module.
The programming process for either unit is about one page in length and I can copy it from a CD and send that to you as an attachment to an email. I need to know your email address as I don't routinely see the questioners' addresses. Send a follow-up question using the 'private' option where you list that address. Preprogramming the powertrain module mainly involves inserting the Vehicle identification number and the mileage on the odometer so that might be possible to preprogram if you tell the vender those numbers. If you have a sentry key immobilizer that also may be involved to be programmed. But let us verify that you need a powertrain module.
The transmission module programming involves some road testing and thus more time than the powertrain. I can't give you an estimate about the time/cost as I don't work at a shop.
So what I am saying is that you would be well-served to get a full readout of the fault codes either for free at a parts store or for under $40 at an independent shop. I would not buy anything until you know these details. A partial readout can often be acquired by using the ignition switch: 'On-off-on-off-on and leave on' doing that in 5 seconds or less elapsed time. Then watch the odometer window to see if the miles reading changes to show 4-digit numbers preceded by a P. Let me know any that appear. That will get us started.
Roland
PS Please click on the 'thank/rate' tab below, and where you see the question about a nomination of me to be 'volunteer of the month' consider giving a 'yes' answer if this has been helpful.
I am in a close race for this recognition and your nomination would be very helpful. Thank you