Can an auto trans go into limp mode and not have a CEL on?

[shoccwave]

From what's described on this forum as "Limp Mode" my car appears to be in it. I can put it in reverse, drive, and it moves but it starts off slowly and when its going around 30-40mph it sounds like it's over-revving. It appears to be using only one gear. Thing is my CEL light is not on. Could it be that the CEL is not working or can a trans go into limp mode without the CEL being on?

 

[VelocitàPaola]

From what's described on this forum as "Limp Mode" my car appears to be in it. I can put it in reverse, drive, and it moves but it starts off slowly and when its going around 30-40mph it sounds like it's over-revving. It appears to be using only one gear. Thing is my CEL light is not on. Could it be that the CEL is not working or can a trans go into limp mode without the CEL being on?

It's possible that the CEL isn't on, but the TCU (not the ECU) is storing an error code. I would scan the OBD-II port for stored codes using the appropriate tool. I don't believe all OBD-II scanners will check for stored TCU error codes.

 

[pgarland]

I've seen limp mode without a CEL before (long story short...I was a dumbass and drilled through my main wire harness when running my amp power cable...yeah, I'm an idiot sometimes!), its definitely possible.

 

[shoccwave]

So Velocita, I would need a OBD II scanner that's capable of also reading codes from the TCU right? Would you know of any models that have this feature?

 

[VelocitàPaola]

I don't know of any offhand, but I'm sure Google can help you...

Otherwise, most reputable mechanics and, of course, Mitsubishi dealerships will have the appropriate tool. I imagine most higher end scanners, like the various Snap-On models, will have this functionality.

 

[shoccwave]

Seeing as I dont want to spend money on a Snap On OBD scanner I guess my best bet is to take it in to a Mitsu dealer and have them tell me why it's in limp mode....thanks guys.

 

[VelocitàPaola]

Seeing as I dont want to spend money on a Snap On OBD scanner I guess my best bet is to take it in to a Mitsu dealer and have them tell me why it's in limp mode....thanks guys.

I wouldn't necessarily say that's your best bet, but it's certainly an option. I think trying one of the scanners AutoZone/Advance rents for free is probably the smartest first move. If those don't work, then you might try an independent mechanic; he or she will likely be cheaper than the dealership.

 

[shoccwave]

Thanks Velocita...I was actually on their website right now. I'm going to take a trip down there and rent one of the scanners. Would it be safe to drive my car there in limp mode? It's about 1.5 miles from my house

 

[pgarland]

Limp mode is designed to let you run the car without doing further damage, so you should be fine. I just wouldn't take it on the highways!

 

[shoccwave]

Connector on the solenoid pack wasnt bolted down right causing a faulty connection, once I bolted it down I cleared the codes and drove it around...I got out of limp mode and three hours of driving later...still no codes.