Transmission noise: sounds like an elephant

QuestionEdit

I have a 2004 chrysler Town and country with only 31,000. I have a sound that is becoming more frequent... sounds like a kazoo or an elephant. 2 garages said transmission, probably plenatary gear... 3k to fix... isnt 31K too few miles for a bad transmission? Is this worth fixing or typically just the start of the repair cycle? Thanks! Angela

AnswerEdit

Hi Angela, I have not heard of an unusually frequent issue with the planetary gear or actually any internal gears of these transmissions. Have you had a fault code readout done of the transmission control module's memory? That may be worthwhile to do as that may give the possible reasons for any flaws that the electronic controller has recognized. A nationwide autoparts store, such as Autozone, will often do a free readout or an independent shop will do it for around $40. Get the specific fault code numbers if there are any. In fact you may also get a readout yourself using the ignition key, turn it:"on-off-on-off-on and leave on" doing that in 5 seconds or less elapsed time. Then watch the odometer window to see the mileage reading disappear and in it place a 4-digit number preceded by a P. Let me know the number either way you get it. If you can avoid having to remove the transmission and rebuild that would be good. Also did you check the level of transmission fluid using its separate dipstick, located on the side of the trans that faces the front of the van? Please 'rate' my answer (see below). Thanks, Roland