Most of the cars and trucks built from the early ’90’s and on use computerized transmissions. The newer the car the more advanced the computer system is. Some cars like the Dodge Viper have seven computers on board. Computerization has been and will be the wave of the future. I’m a big fan of hi tech computerized cars, even though I drive a non computerized 1988 1 ton GMC.
What is happening when you are driving your 1989 to 2009 Dodge Caravan or Plymouth Voyager (1989-up), or any Chrysler product for that matter, and the check engine light comes on at the same time you notice a problem has just occurred to your vehicle?
Your ‘check engine light‘ is your ‘check transmission light’ too. Something is wrong with your car and it is probably the transmission. I’m basing my guess it is the transmission, since it does not seem to be shifting, as in, stuck in gear and very sluggish.
BTW, the offending transmissions made by Chrysler Corporation are: TF-604 (Torque Flight is the Chrysler trade name) and TF-606, which are front wheel drive overdrive models. There are a bunch of rear wheel drive Mopar transmissions too that can have this problem. Demystifying the different names and numerical designations the factory gives them, and the names transmission rebuilders give them is hopeless and not important..
There is only one thing to do that makes sense, check your transmission fluid, then locate a reputable transmission shop and have them diagnose it using a scan tool of some sort. We are looking for a code from the computer indicating the problem.
This condition is called: “limp-In” mode. The whole purpose is to immediately alert you to a problem with your car or truck transmission and have it taken care of before you make a mess out of your transmission. The bulk of cases that get immediate attention are not serious problems.
I will continue this post tomorrow with details on how these unique TF 604 series automatic overdrive transmissions work. They are a one of a kind transmission. GotTransmissions.com Blog will cover some theory and the unique features that make this one heck of a unit when it is upgrades properly.
