2003 Aztek not shifting beyond 2nd gear

[Geordie]

Hi all,

I have a Pontiac Aztek 2003 that will not shift beyond second gear. Downshifts just fine to first gear, upshifts just fine to second gear, won't shift any higher.

I have noticed that in second gear at 45 mph the RPM with gas applied is close to 3500 but the second I take off the gas, RPM drops to about 600 or so, idle.

Some initial research suggests replace the vehicle speed sensor (VSS) which looks to be about $30-40 and fairly easy to do. Is this a good step or a waste of time/money?

Does anyone else have any insight?

 

[melsg5]

do you have a check engine light on and if so have you had it scanned?
have you checked the transmission fluid level?
does your speedometer work?

 

[Rudeone73]

do you have a check engine light on and if so have you had it scanned?
have you checked the transmission fluid level?
does your speedometer work?

I have a similar issue, just bought an o3 yesterday. Driving it home it would slip at the top of second but eventually shift to third then fourth, but in the 3rd hour of the drive home it wouldn't shift passed second anymore. Fluid is full, not burnt,no engine lights, any help would b appreciated mike 219 386 087one

 

[melsg5]

You have a 4T65E transmission which uses a computer and other components to control shifting. You could have a problem with the solenoids but to diagnosis it you need a shop that can read the transmission control module.