I have a steady engine light on and the GEAR FAULT error which started up a week or so ago - after a few minutes of some rough shifting, car locks into limp mode. Took car in to my mechanic and here is his diagnosis -

Checked codes, cleared codes, test drove - vehicle has flair / slip in 2nd 3rd - Trans. code P0778 returns right away. Checked solenoid ( pins 52, 4 , 13, 16 ) resistance 0.9 ohms spec is 2.9 ohms. Solenoid is defective. Transmission fluid level is full but fluid is very dark and smells burnt indicating internal damage / wear - recommendation replace transmission.

Haven't gotten a 2nd opinion yet - before I resign myself to new tranny, I wanted to post for some advice, workaround, etc.

Thanks! Michael

 

Replacing the solenoids in these cars are extremely easy. I would get a solenoid pack, $300 off of amazon, and replace all of them. Then get a bunch of Royal Purple Max ATF and refill the transmission. It's a lot cheaper than the $3 - $4,000 they want for a new tranny.