Automatic 1997 Saxo gear select issues

28th June 2013, 14:17

Hi All, new here, hope you're all well!

I've had my automatic 1997 saxo for a few weeks now, i got it dead cheap and it's been a good runaround!

Today though it's developed a weird issue...

1. It won't select reverse (or if it does, you get maybe about 10% of the power of the accelleration you're pressing down)

2. when it's in drive, it goes through the gears upto about 35mph then seems to select the gear below, and as a result it won't go any faster than about 40, and that's when you rev it.

As a result i've driven it in "2" today, which goes up to about 50/55 at a push, i'm just hoping this isn't isnt going to be something dead expensive as i don't think the car's worth much as it is.

Thanks

28th June 2013, 14:29

Firstly, welcome to the forum.

Secondly, have you checked the fluid level on the box. If it's missing enough fluid it won't be able to run the solenoid valves to move the gears etc around properly.

Also, is it making any weird noises?

29th June 2013, 20:53

Dear Therustler,
Firstly, what cc is your automatic Saxo ?
My daughter has a 1999 V-Reg 1.4cc Saxo automatic

The automatic gearboxes are fitted with their own E.C.U, It is located near to the pas pump behind the coolant radiator. It may be possible for you to get the car put on to diagnostic machine to be able to read the fault codes.
There are quite a few sensors that are fitted around the gearbox casings on the automatic gearboxes, one of them may be failing.
Anything is worth a try, before you condem the automatic gearbox.
I hope this helps

Vince,