Transmission Downshift Problem (2001 Automatic)

[one4house]

First off, Hello. I am new to the forums and looking for some help for my parents. They have a 2001 PT Cruiser Limited. They have had this problem before and had it fixed by the factory. When you are slowing to a stop, the car will lunge into gear. It is not at every stop but most of the time.
The problem was fixed about a year and a half ago and has recently reappeared. It was first thought to be a simple transmission fluid change needed, but ended up needing to be the transmission valve-body changed.
Just wondering if this is an isolated incident or a common problem? To have the exact same problem spring up after only 1.5 years seems a little ridiculous.

Looking forward to your replies,
Adam

[quicksilverdon]

Some clues, please - how many miles?
What year?
The transmission is computer-controlled, might be that.
Could be the clutch packs.
Could need new transmission fluid.

[one4house]

]Some clues, please - how many miles? 65,000
What year? Title says 2001 automatic
The transmission is computer-controlled, might be that. I did mention that the first time this happened that it was the transmission valve-body that had to be replaced. That was 5-10,000 miles ago.
Could be the clutch packs. I appreciate you throwing these ideas out. I am more looking to see if this is a reoccurring problem with PT's in general. Does not seem right to have to spend $800 every year or 2 on a transmission.
Could need new transmission fluid. Tried this the first time. Did not help and had to have the valve-body replaced.

[ucantcme]

Never had a problem like this on my Cruiser, nor have I heard of it recently on the forums....

[quicksilverdon]

Originally Posted by one4house

]
Could need new transmission fluid. Tried this the first time. Did not help and had to have the valve-body replaced.

Are you sure they used ATF + 4 ? The Chrysler transmission is very fussy about tranny fluid. If they went to a dealer, that's okay, but some shops may not know.

The symptoms you describe aren't common.

Maybe ask around for a good transmission shop and have them give an opinion.

[one4house]

Yeah, It was a dealer who replaced it. I appreciate the replies. Must just be a gremlin in this one.

[frostygt]

ok so what was replaced last time? the whole transmission or just something like a soliniod pack?

and the other thing is, with these transmissions being computer controled you need to have it scanned to see if there are any trouble codes in the transmission control module... not all trans codes will turn the engine light on.
also if the tech knows what he is doing he can look at the sensor info to see if there is a problem there. sensors being off will cause drivability problems but not always set a fault.

so long and short of it all your going to have to take the car in to either a good dealer or good transmission shop simple because with automatic transmissions there are to many fault posibilites to diagnois over the internet.

[one4house]

Originally Posted by frostygt

ok so what was replaced last time? the whole transmission or just something like a soliniod pack?

Are you serious? Are you even reading my post? This is almost funny.

[quicksilverdon]

My hunch - clutch packs, but don't go by that - agree w/Frosty that good diagnosis is needed.

[epbbib]

I just want to say that you're not the only one having this problem. There are other posts on this very site where people are inquiring of this issue. Sad to say, there hasn't been any solution yet.

My friend came to me about her problem with this. Not being a fan of Chrysler transmissions I nearly didn't accept the task of helping her find a solution.

I have checked for codes and came up empty handed. I am going to attempt to reset the computer (another forum suggested this by disconnecting the battery and pumping the brake 3-4 times, wait 5 minutes, then reconnect. After which you should drive it around and, in my interpretation, drive it like you stole it!). I doubt that this will be permanent solution.

She just took it in to change the fluid and filter. Obviously no resolve. My only guess is that there are some bad sensors (or Chrysler transmissions just suck!).

I feel sorrow for those that say they've learned to live with it!

Oh, and I also feel your irritation with people that don't read the whole thread, or others for that matter, before they respond.