Q: 4l60e transmission shifting problem

asked by on February 07, 2017

Hey so when I try to switch from 1-2 it won't shift into 2nd on its own. I have to give it higher rpm completely let off gas then slightly hit the gas then it will go into 2nd. But it's getting worse where it's barely wanting to shift into 2nd now. Also I have no 4th gear or OD. Would this be a mechanical or electrical issue. I'm hoping it's something I can fix. Thanks for reading this, appreciate your feedback.

My car has 100000 miles.
My car has an automatic transmission.

Car is hard to shift Inspection $94.99 - $114.99 Get a Quote

The 1-2 shift failure on the 4L60E is often due to a faulty throttle position sensor (TPS). Test the sensor (there should be a smooth, linear electrical response over the range of motion) or substitute a known good unit. A more serious cause of 1-2 shift failure on the 4L60E is a leak in the 2nd gear apply circuit (servo assembly or 1-2 accumulator). You can test for this by using an external pressure gauge. If you see a big drop in pressure when the PCM commands 2nd gear, there is a leak. It is also possible to have inadequate line pressure due to a leaking boost valve, clogged EPC filter screen, failing EPC solenoid, or possibly leaky seals throughout the transmission. The problem with the overdrive and no 4th gear is probably mechanical in nature but would require further diagnosis. Often, no 4th gear is accompanied by noise (due to hard parts failure) and/or 1st or 3rd won’t work either. The transmission you have is very common, parts are very readily available, and is easily rebuildable so you needn’t worry. If you can’t repair it on the car, just rebuild it. If you want a conclusive diagnostic performed by a certified Mechanic, dispatched by YourMechanic right to your location, please request a transmission shift diagnostic and the responding certified mechanic will get this resolved for you. If you have further questions or concerns, do not hesitate to re-contact YourMechanic as we are always here to help you.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

How do I break in the car?
If your car is new, you will need to break it in. Here are some guidelines to follow: 1. For the first 500 miles, avoid towing a trailer. 2. For the first 1,200 miles, avoid overly quick starts, or hard...
No horn or cruise control
The symptoms sound very similar to an electronic malfunction behind the steering wheel or in the steering column. The Air Bag Light is illuminated by a module that may have a fault code that will point the mechanic in the...
Bad gas mileage, engine misfire - 1992 Cadillac Allante
There can be multiple causes, but it sounds like your fuel injection (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/fuel-injector-replacement) is injecting too much fuel into the engine for the amount of air it's using. Faulty temperature, air flow, or oxygen sensors (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/oxygen-sensor-replacement), a dirty throttle body...
Car won't start or make any noise when the key turns over, but the battery has power because all my lights and radio is working.
Hi, thanks for writing in. This issue is most likely due to the starter (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/symptoms-of-a-bad-or-failing-starter). If the battery has full power, the starter is most likely receiving full power. If the starter is not working but it is receiving full...
Driving with the parking brake on
Hi, thanks for writing in. As long as your brakes feel fine, I would say there is no immediate need to replace anything. It would be a good idea to have a mechanic check to make sure nothing is damaged...
What does it mean to have the O/D OFF light on
When the O/D off light is on this means the overdrive gear is turned off and the torque converter will not lock up. This setting will help if you are towing something behind the vehicle. When the light is off...
What size bolt should I use?
Hi - From your description, I'm not sure which bolt you are referring to, but you can measure both bolt diameter and pitch to determine the answer to your question. The pitch can be measured with a thread pitch gauge...
What side is my starter on a 2006 nissan pathfinder
Hello, thank you for writing in. The starter is tucked up behind the oil pan towards the right side of the vehicle. The right side is also known as the passenger side of the vehicle. There should be two mounting...
Where is the battery saver relay located on a 98 GMC Yukon 4wd?
This vehicle is not equipped with a battery saver relay and interior lights are controlled by a lighting control module if equipped or operated manually.

Related articles

How Long Does a Transmission Speed Sensor Last?
The The transmission speed sensor measures the RPMs of the shaft of the transmission. While the engine is running, but not moving, then the input shaft of the transmission is not moving either. When the input shaft moves, the transmission...
Industry News for Automotive Techs: October 8-14
50 MPG Chevrolet Cruz Diesel, Mazda's G-Vectoring drive system, Uber and Volvo collaborate on autonomous cars, and Hubb's new reusable oil filter.
Essential Things to Know About the 2017 Chevrolet Bolt Electric Car
The 2017 Chevrolet Bolt is the first all-electric car under $50k. The Chevy Bolt has a higher EPA rating than Tesla and gets 238 miles per charge.