boosted7

96, 2.8, Auto.

Only moves in reverse or 2nd. If i put it in drive it slips completely/revs freely.

Suggestions?

Hightone64

Sounds like your transmission is bad, I dont think you can do anything but put in a new trasmission

4Driver4

Codes? Have you checked fluid level? Any basic trouble shooting done?

boosted7

I'll pull the codes in a bit.

I haven't got anything for tools where I am so I"ll have to bring it to a shop for the fluid check but if i get it to a shop I was thinking about getting the fluid changed with the filter if you guys think it might be the culprit...

4Driver4

A fluid change is expensive. I'd start by just borrowing a VAG-COM and checking the level and pulling the codes on your own.

boosted7

No codes. Can I check the level with the vag com?

4Driver4

You can't check the level with the VAG-COM, and you shouldn't try to check it without VAG-COM.

Cryptic enough?

Level is checked manually via a stand pipe in the transmission pan. You remove the plug and pump in fluid (the right fluid) until it runs out again. But (and here's the VAG-COM part) the trans temp needs to be between 35 and 45 degrees C.

Basically, you raise and level the car, then start the engine. Fire up VAG-COM to begin monitoring trans temp. With the car running and in Park, pump as much fluid as you can into the trans through the fill hole. Stop when it runs back out. Wait until the temp reaches about 37 degrees, then put the plug back in.