1997 Gmc jimmy stuck in third gear and wont lower?

Answer 1

I had this same problem with my 1997 GMC Jimmy. All of a sudden my check engine light would come on at least 70% of the time I tried to go for a drive. Then I would be stuck in 3rd gear. I was not sure at first what the problem was. I had the code pulled from the CPU and it told me I was having a torque converter problem. The mechanic said it may not be the converter at all, but a sensor malfunction. Another mechanic thought it was the fuel pump. I did not think that, but I thought perhaps I was either having a valve misfire or a fuel ignition problem. Of course at that point I had not concluded I was stuck in 3rd gear at all, boy was I confused. Well, as it turns out the problem is VERY CHEAP TO FIX AND SIMPLE!!! All you need to do is replace the IGNITION SWITCH. I figured this out because as the problem persisted and I started having trouble taking my key out of the ignition, but only when I when I got stuck in 3rd gear. The mechanic told me I was wrong and that could not possibly be the problem. I came across web forums with people who had the same problem, stuck key and 3rd gear. Some people suggested changing the ignition switch because a break in the switch can cause all sorts of crazy electrical problems. I decided to start with a cheap repair and go from there. I had a mechanic replace the switch, which I ordered online or about $100. It requires taking apart the dash and steering column so I paid to have it done. I recommend this to all. It has been about 4 or 5 months now and the problem never came back at all. NOT ONCE!!! Sometimes it is best to do your own research instead of trusting a mechanic. Even GMC had no clue how to resolve this problem.