Whats wrong with my car? 2003 Chevy malibu?

[michelle p]

First of all I know I need to have an engine diagnostic, I just want to know your ideas of what is wrong and what you think it will cost. I have a 2003 Chevy Malibu. For a while now the check engine light has been coming on and off. It is slow to accelerate and has a knocking sound when I accelerate too fast. Also if I go over 45 for a prolonged period of time say on the highway, when I decelerate at stop lights it is stuck in 2nd gear and i have to put it in park, turn off the car and restart for it to return to 1st gear. What is this? Is this the transmission?? I'm going to have it looked at, I just need to plan financially so I know what this is going to run me and everyplace i call just tells me they need to see it. I'm not asking for exactly what it is, just possible reasons and how much each one would run me.

Thanks for your help!!!!
It's an automatic btw.
Also is has 150,000 miles

 

[Robert M]

Sounds to me like you have a flaky engine or trans controlling computer. How long has it been doing this??? First, go to Auto Zone. They will scan your codes for you for free. This is only the first step!! Have someone inspect your battery cables on BOTH ends. make sure that there is no corrosion causing unusual electrical resistances any where. If you still have trouble, you have no real choice other than going to a dealership. On a good day, they might not even charge you to examine your computer or trouble codes. If it turns out that the computer itself has failed, there should be plenty of good used ones at recycle yards. If GM is a good company, they should stand behind any factory defects that show up later in the car's life. Good Luck!!!

 

[williebob101]

it could be a transfer case problem.... but yeah, its deffinately something wrong in the transmission.....

 

[Jess!]

Might be the transmission, that'll cost you about 3000$ to get fixed.

That's a lot of miles for a 2003...:O

 

[Tex G]

Your transmission is most likely set the code. If it is just the electric part and does not need a overhaul. It will not be to bad on the packet book. A overhaul can run up to $3500.00. This is on the high side. Because there are parts in the transmission that run over 500.00 each.
Don't let this put you off. Take it to a transmission shop. Such as Amoco. They take it apart and let you know how much it will cost up front in writing. It doest not cause that much to have it checked.