Limp mode

[FTO-BOY]

So just got another scary call from dad..

Since I have lost my license, we swapped cars and he's been driving my FTO!

Calls me up this morning to inform me that the car is stuck in third and flashing neutral - limp mode!

So now frustrated as I get my license back this Thursday. How much does a new gearbox cost (worst case scenario). Will changing the trans fluid fix it?

I know it's been discussed here but I'm currently at work and can't access the site on the comp so I'm limited to my phone.

[I8A4RE]

Check error codes. I wouldnt worry too much just yet. Sensors are more common to go than the whole gearbox.

[FTO-BOY]

I hope so simon. Where can I get the sensors from and how much?

[I8A4RE]

Well first start with error codes mate. That takes the guessing out of it. But if it is a sensor then camskills, I believe has everything you will need. Someone else may no somewhere local though.

[Bennoz]

I may have a spare set..

[FTO-BOY]

Oh nice! I'll check for codes this arvo and let you know ben.

[FTO-BOY]

ok heres the code i got:


42 2nd gear ratio does not meet specification
43 3rd gear ratio does not meet specification

how do i solve this?

also the engine constantly flashes?.. what does this mean?

[I8A4RE]

if the output from the output shaft speed sensor multiplied by each gear ratio is not the same as the output from the input shaft speed sensor after shifting to each gear has been completed, each diagnosis code is output. If each diagnosis code is output four times, the transmission is locked into 3rd gear as a fail-safe measure, and the N range lamp flashes.

Probable cause
*Malfunction of the input shaft speed sensor
*Malfunction of the output shaft speed sensor
*Malfunction of the underdrive clutch retainer
*Malfunction of the transfer drive gear or driven gear
*Malfunction of the underdrive clutch system (for code No.41 42, 43)
*Malfunction of the second brake system (for code No.42, 44)

[FTO-BOY]

So what's that mean? Torque converter? Also checked the fluid and it's not looking healthy. It's a dark colour rather than redish

[I8A4RE]

The first thing I would be doing is changing the fluid and that is with any error that the auto flashes at you.

So change the fluid, disconnect the battery for 5 mins (ecu reset) then test drive.

[I8A4RE]

So what's that mean? Torque converter? Also checked the fluid and it's not looking healthy. It's a dark colour rather than redish

No, more like sensors but as I said above change fluid and then if that doesn't fix it look at the sensors. But I dare say it will just need a good fluid change.

[FTO-BOY]

Yeah it's due for a change anyways just been putting it off til I get my license back. But I guess I'll have to do it now. It's funny coz the mitsi genuine oil is cheaper than aftermarket. $43 compared to $46.. SP3 right? And also z411

[dstocks]

Worst case scenario ive got a gearbox I think. $300.

[FTO-BOY]

so what does the constant flashing of the engine light mean? it isnt actually a code or anything but its constantly flashing?

[dstocks]

Should be a series of long nd short flashes I think. Like morse code.

[Bennoz]

so what does the constant flashing of the engine light mean? it isnt actually a code or anything but its constantly flashing?

If its just constantly flashing at the same rate, that means there are no error codes. All clear.

Do your box flush, clean the input & output sensors, then if no go, we can change the sensors out.

[FTO-BOY]

Ok doing now. Quick question.. Where's the sensors located?

[FTO-BOY]

Ok just done the flush with genuine oil.

Now only getting

43 3rd gear ratio does not meet specification

I Didnt clean the sensors though as i dont know which one to clean.

[FTO-BOY]

by the way heres my VIN NUMBER 6T91MPR03RYJPL004 BUILT DATE: 11/94

[dstocks]

Sensors are on top of gearbox. An electrical plug goes into each. The screw out from memory.