What are these transmission codes and how do I make the repairs?

I found a lot of Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) information out there. It looks like Chrysler has a lot of problems with transmissions of this nature. Before you start shelling out money to get it repaired, try to talk your local manufacturer dealership into fixing it cheaper based upon the TSBs. Sometimes the dealer will be able to charge the work back to the manufacturer even though there is no warranty left on the vehicle. At minimum they should give you a healthy discount because it is a known problem with that component, and the manufacturer has known about it for several years and didn't issue a recall. It will help if you bring in the relevant TSB wich can be found at:
http://www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/tsbs/

I have not tried calling their toll-free number, but you might try that first. If you search the website by your vehicle, there are several TSBs relating to "POWERTRAIN TRANSMISSION," and you can pay them to get more detailed information. Sometimes it's enough if you just bring in the TSB number. The dealership will realize that you know what you are talking about and are not going to be suckered into paying for something that they will be charging back to the manufacturer anyway.

One possible reason for the malfunction and resulting trouble codes is the return filter coming apart, causing fluid pressures to be off. It could also be a solenoid valve getting stuck, or the PCM computer is faulty. It's not likely to require a complete rebuild, but it's something that your average shade-tree guy or gal won't be able to handle.

Good luck, and don't let them snow you!

Thanks Dr. Know -

I was able to download a free Transmission Manual online for the 41TE Transmission - BUT THE TRANSMISSION IN THE 2003 Intrepid SE 2.7ltr is a 42LE - they are extremely similar usually in the same repair manuals together and both styles have the same codes so I feel confident in the diagnosis.

Luckily, all of the codes are related to the SAME PART. The Diagnostic and Information Procedures for all of these codes recommends the repair to be: "replace the Pressure/Solenoid Switch Assembly.

Since there are so many of these problems I am posting what i was able to find out. Maybe this info will help others and save them time and energy! I invested about 7 hours just searching through all of the online questions and answers....

CULPRIT:

Pressure/Solenoid Switch Assembly

NEW COST:

$200 on Ebay (new in package includes S&H) - MOPAR brand
$259 at Dodge Dealer - MOPAR brand

TIME TO REPAIR:

A capable technician should be able to do the repair in approx. 2 hours. The transmission does not have to be removed, only the valve body (which the solenoid pack sits on). So expect to spend anywhere from $120+ (most competent mechanics will charge $60/hr+ for labor)

NOTE: I personally don't feel 100% confident making these repairs on my own. The screws must be torqued to a specific range, and the valve body must be removed in order to even get the solenoid pack, and those screws have to be torqued as well. I am including a diagram w/an actual photo of the transmission with the Pressure/Solenoid Switch Pack in plain view.


I feel that I have educated myself enough on this repair that I won't be taken to the cleaners - neither should anyone else!

Glad to see you got it figured out!

If I may ask, where did you find the repair manual for it? That info is really invaluable, but difficult to find online.

Pulling apart the valve body myself would make me uneasy as well. Not only are there a lot of small parts in an auto transmission, but there's a potential for dirt to get in there while you have it apart and cause damage later as well. That's something usually left to a specialized transmission repair shop to get it done right, and even they don't have a 100% success.

I still think the dealership should at least pay for the part if there is a TSB for the issue, but I guess that would depend on how badly they want your business in the future.

If there is a TSB, and a recall, this should go back to the dealer, and be repaired at NO out of pocket expense to you.