Pacifica Transmission Emergency: Warning Light Crisis

I had a very similar transmission problem with my 2013 Chrysler 300. After noticing erratic gear shifts and warning lights, I discovered it was related to undervoltage affecting the transmission control module. Since I have some experience working on automatic gearboxes, I first suspected a transmission fluid issue. However, after taking it to my regular workshop, they diagnosed an electrical problem affecting the transmission performance. The low voltage was causing the transmission control unit to malfunction and enter limp mode. The fix involved replacing the voltage regulator and performing a transmission control module reset. Total cost was 240€, including diagnostic time. The repair took about 4 hours, and the transmission has worked flawlessly since then. Before suggesting specific solutions for your Pacifica, could you share: Current mileage, Any battery or electrical issues recently, Whether the problem occurs more when the engine is cold or warm, If there are any other warning lights active A transmission flush might help, but given the symptoms, it would be wise to check the electrical system first. Unusual gear shifts and safety mode engagement often point to electrical or control module issues rather than just degraded transmission fluid.

Thanks for the feedback. After the last service at 61271 KM, the issue actually got worse. The slipping transmission symptoms increased, especially during cold starts. The battery is relatively new (6 months old), and the voltage readings are normal. The automatic gearbox problems happen consistently regardless of engine temperature, and the only active warning is the transmission light. I noticed the transmission oil looks slightly darker than usual when checking the dipstick, but the level seems correct. Getting worried this might require a major transmission repair rather than just an oil replacement service. Just scheduled a diagnostic appointment for next week. I will share the outcome once I know more about the root cause.

Thanks for the update on your Pacifica's transmission issues. Since you mentioned the symptoms worsened after service, this reminds me exactly of what happened with my 300 before the final diagnosis. The darker transmission fluid you noticed is concerning, as it could indicate internal wear. In my case, even though the electrical issue was the primary problem, we discovered metal particles in the hydraulic fluid during testing. Based on your description of consistent slipping transmission behavior regardless of temperature, plus the darker fluid, you might be dealing with both mechanical wear and a potential control module issue. When my 300 showed these exact symptoms, the transmission specialist found worn clutch plates in addition to the electrical problem. A few suggestions before your diagnostic appointment: Request a transmission fluid analysis to check for metal particles, Have them scan for transmission control module codes, Ask about checking the solenoid pack, as this is a common failure point In my experience with the same transmission family, repair costs ranged from 800€ for solenoid replacement to 2400€ for a full rebuild. The good news is the automatic gearbox in these models is generally robust, and sometimes the fix is simpler than expected. Looking forward to hearing what the diagnostic reveals.

Thank you for sharing those details about your 300. My transmission problems do sound quite similar, though I am hoping it will not require a complete rebuild. I checked my service records and noticed something interesting, the transmission oil replacement was actually done using a different fluid specification than recommended. This could explain why the slipping transmission issues became more pronounced after the service. The diagnostic fee they quoted is 120€, which seems reasonable. I will definitely ask them to check both the mechanical and electrical aspects you mentioned, especially the solenoid pack and fluid analysis. The potential repair costs you shared are helpful for setting expectations, though 2400€ for a rebuild would be tough to swallow right now. I took a short drive today and noticed the transmission performance seems worst when shifting between 2nd and 3rd gear. Will be sure to mention this specific symptom to the technician during the diagnosis. Will update the forum once I know more about what is causing these transmission problems.