My daughter drove through some pretty deep water and later the car would not engage reverse (she was parked so she didn't try D). Later that day she tried again and noted that it made a screeching sound (alternator belt ?), wouldn't engage reverse and the PRND321 showed 3 instead of R - but it would start. The next day I could not get it to start even with a good jump-no click or anything, but the dash lights and everything else seem fine (except the incorrect gear indicator).

The VAG (freeware) showed no trans codes, but indicated the same shift problem. I'm buying the $99 version of VAG to see if I can do more. In the mean time we're trailering it home and pulling the center console trim to clean up the shifter position switch (just had an e320 MB strand us due to coffee down the shift level slot runs right into the tcm - nice).

I'd appreciate any ideas. I got the car for free and replaced the transmission with a used unknown origin transmission. It shifts a little hard on 2-3, but seemed ok otherwise - I don't suspect trans failure. I could be really wrong though.

Thank you,

Pat

 

The $99 Vag will not tell you any more than the freebee.

as for the problem -- I'd begin looking at electrical connectors - Since you had the trans replaced - I'd bet they didn't push one together correctly and it got water in it.

 

Or, the infamous water in the passenger floor getting to the TCM.

Good luck,

Bob

 

Got the car home and put a charger on the battery. Tried the $99 VAG and except for some output tests it was a waste of money like you guys said.

Anyway no codes and now it looks like the shift indicator is working correctly (VAG communicates with the trans ecu just fine), but still no start. I do here some small noise when I try to start it, but nothing like a click or starter motor noises I'm used to.

I appreciate any input.

Thank you,

Pat

 

Check the ground between the motor and frame... remove both ends, clean the contact areas and replace.

If that dosen't fix the problem look at the starter. try a jumper to the solenoid to see if it is OK. then work your way back -- also check fuses.