GET THE COMPUTER CHIP CHECKED FIRST!!!
I had the same problem, for 1st and 2nd gears. I spent $1300. on a new transmission, only to find out it was a computer chip that was bad -$80 problem!!!
Get a 2nd, 3rd, 4th opinion at different garages so they don't try to cheat you!!
If second is the only gear that does not work, there is an internal failure. The transmission will need repaired or replaced.
When shifting from first to second gear in a manual transmission vehicle, you need to press the clutch pedal to disengage the engine from the transmission. Then, while keeping the clutch pedal depressed, move the gear shifter from first gear to second gear. Finally, release the clutch pedal slowly while simultaneously pressing the gas pedal to smoothly engage the engine with the transmission in second gear.
The LS has a five speed transmission. Therefore it shifts from first to second, second to third, third to fourth and fourth to fifth. Four shifts.
Do a VIN search and the VIN will tell you the original options.
First Identify what transmission you have and get a rebuild kit for that transmission. Second purchase a Rebuild manual for that transmission, should cost about $30.00 Last and most important take your time and follow the instructions from the manual step by step DOUBLE CHECK EVERYTHING
Transmission valve body dirty.... if you need more help look to loosenut: www.topspeedautogroup.com
The band that controls second and fourth gear has failed. Usually about a $400 repair at a transmission shop.
The 1988 Plymouth Horizon typically features a 5-speed manual transmission or a 3-speed automatic transmission. For manual models, the shift pattern is generally laid out in a standard "H" configuration: first gear to the left and up, second gear directly below first, third gear to the right and up, fourth gear directly below third, and fifth gear to the right and down. The automatic transmission features a simpler P-R-N-D-L pattern. Always refer to the owner's manual for specific details related to your vehicle.
you could either have a bad syncranizer or the throw out bearing is up
The Borg Warner T5 manual transmission typically has a gear ratio of 4.03:1 in first gear, 2.37:1 in second, 1.49:1 in third, 1.00:1 in fourth, and a 0.63:1 overdrive in fifth gear. However, specific ratios can vary slightly depending on the model and application, such as in different vehicles or performance versions. It's important to check the specific variant for precise ratios.
Release the break for a second then move into reverse. works every time on my 97.
I would guess you are low on transmission fluid.