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2022 Dodge Charger SXT - Transmission Limp Mode and Hard Shifts

0

Paul Z. · rep 0 · May 22, 5:38 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2022 Dodge Charger SXT

Hey everyone,

My 2022 Dodge Charger SXT (V6, 3.6L) with about 30,000 miles just started acting up. While driving on the highway, it suddenly felt like it lost power, and the Check Engine Light came on. It felt like it was stuck in a higher gear, and shifting became very harsh and delayed.

I pulled over, and when I restarted it, it felt a bit better but still shifted really hard, especially from 1st to 2nd. It seems like it's in 'limp mode'. My basic scanner shows a P0700 code, which I know is a generic transmission control system fault.

Has anyone experienced this with their newer Charger? What could be the underlying cause? I'm worried about driving it like this.

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 22, 5:38 AM

0

ClearTheCode admin answer:

The P0700 code indicates that the Transmission Control Module (TCM) has detected a fault within the transmission system and has requested the Check Engine Light to illuminate. This code is a general informational code; there will almost certainly be one or more specific transmission-related codes stored in the TCM that provide more detail about the actual problem. The symptoms you describe – limp mode, hard shifts, and feeling stuck in gear – are classic signs of a transmission issue.

Common causes for these symptoms and the P0700 code in a Dodge Charger can include:

  1. Low or Contaminated Transmission Fluid: Insufficient fluid or fluid that is old and degraded can cause pressure issues and lead to erratic shifting. Contaminated fluid can also damage internal components.
  2. Transmission Solenoid Failure: Solenoids control the flow of transmission fluid to engage different gears. A faulty solenoid can cause delayed or harsh shifts, or prevent a gear from engaging.
  3. Transmission Speed Sensors: Input or output speed sensors tell the TCM how fast the transmission shafts are rotating. Incorrect readings can confuse the TCM, leading to incorrect shift points or limp mode.
  4. Valve Body Issues: The valve body is the 'brain' of the automatic transmission, directing fluid pressure to various clutch packs. A fault here can cause a wide range of shifting problems.
  5. Wiring or Connector Problems: Damaged wiring or loose connectors to the TCM or transmission components can interrupt signals, leading to faults.
  6. Internal Transmission Mechanical Failure: While less common on a 2022 model with 30k miles, internal wear or damage to clutch packs or gears can also cause these symptoms.

Diagnostic Steps:

  • Check Transmission Fluid: Park on a level surface, warm up the engine, and check the transmission fluid level and condition according to your owner's manual. Look for proper level, color (should be red/pink, not dark brown or black), and smell (should not smell burnt).
  • Advanced Scan Tool: A basic OBD-II scanner will only show P0700. You need an advanced scan tool (or a visit to a shop) that can communicate with the TCM to pull the specific 'P' codes (e.g., P07xx, P08xx) that pinpoint the exact fault.

When to see a shop:

Given that your vehicle is in limp mode and exhibiting hard shifts, it's highly recommended to have it inspected by a professional mechanic or a Dodge dealership as soon as possible. Driving with these symptoms can cause further, more severe damage to the transmission. A qualified technician can perform a comprehensive diagnostic scan, check fluid pressures, and perform specific tests to accurately identify the root cause of the transmission issue.

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