2002 Dodge Durango Won't shift properly

2002 DODGE DURANGO
72,000 MILES • V8 • 4WD • AUTOMATIC
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VANCEB
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  • 1 POST
Hello,

When I get into my vehicle and put it into drive it takes off like normal. As soon as you come to a stop it drops down into second gear but will not go into first. If you manually pull the gear selector into first it goes right in. You have to do this every time you come to a stop. After the vehicle warms up it seems to work fine.

Thanks for your help.
Vance
Dec 17, 2009 at 7:59 AM
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CARADIODOC
  • CERTIFIED EXPERT
  • 34,306 POSTS
Sounds like the governor valve is sticking which will make the transmission think the vehicle is still moving. This is a spring-loaded valve that spins when the drive shaft turns. It moves from centrifugal force. Varnish buildup is a likely cause, especially since it works properly when it's warmed up. Check at your local auto parts store for an additive that you can leave in the transmission, or, if it's due for a fluid and filter change, there are cleaners that will dissolve the varnish but must be removed after a few miles.

caradiodoc
Dec 26, 2009 at 1:45 AM