Most modern transmissions have a “limp mode” or “safe mode” that they may default to if an error is detected. What does it mean if your transmission has entered safe mode, and where do you go from there? Van Meter Auto Repair in Mantua, NJ has the answers you need.

What’s the point?

Safe mode is designed to keep catastrophic damage from happening to your transmission. If the control module senses danger, it defaults the transmission into safe mode, which typically means the RPM and shifting abilities are highly limited. This drastically reduces the risk of your transmission being harmed, in the event there is a problem that could cause damage to it.

In safe mode, your car will feel like it’s not working correctly, and may lead you to believe the transmission has gone out. That’s a logical conclusion, given it won’t shift the way it’s supposed to and the vehicle will be limited to 45mph or so. However, there’s a good chance the transmission is just fine - that’s the point of it going into safe mode, after all.

What should you do?

Don’t assume the worst. A vehicle will enter safe mode for a variety of reasons, but probably not as a result of the entire transmission going out. Usually, it’s just a sensor or other error code that sounds the alarm, and sends the vehicle into safe mode.

The first thing you should do is get it to the shop - there may be an issue that needs to be addressed, or it could be as simple as plugging it up to some equipment and clearing the code. Either way, you’ll need to have it inspected by a professional with the right diagnostic tools, so you can be sure there isn’t a deeper issue before resetting the transmission. Most likely, we’ll have your car driving normally in no time.

No matter your repair or maintenance needs, we’ve got you covered. For the best transmission service shop in Mantua, NJ, call or stop by Van Meter Auto Repair today, and we can get the job done.