I have a 97 Max with auto trans. The trans wont shift out of first gear or go over 40 mph. Can I replace the filter to fix this problem or should I just buy another trans?

 

Neither.. Actually the transmission has a screen that rarely causes any issues. The transmissions are quite durable. I suspect the issue is electronic and can be repaired without changing the transmission.

 

Maybe someone switched the "D" and "1" on your shift lever?

 

Is the auto trans vent tube blocked, or kinked ?

This normally looks like an "unconnected vacuum line" immediately inboard of the battery.

One time, when the battery hold down was loose: the battery shifted in-flight and kinked this hose. The report I got was similar: "wouldn't / couldn't shift out of first".

 

Confirm that you don't have any TPS codes. I eventually did get codes after months of increasingly poor shifting and a few days of no shifting at all, and replacing it completely fixed the problem.

 

Oh.... You mean you have Transmission problems.....

First thing's first,

Pull out the dipstick and inspect and smell the fluid. If it's still red and translucent and doesn't smell cooked, them proceed with the usual list........

 

I am just putting a quick reply on this thread as I am trying to sort out a 95 maxima with what seems to be this exact problem. I will be back here once I have checked the transmission oil on it. ( assuming that is good what is next after checking the vac line?)
EDIT:
Alrighty I have done some further reading.
If I check for errors using the ECU and engine light I assume I would find one of the following error codes? 1104 1107 1201 1205
(I will only be getting around to doing this on Monday so I am doing as much info gathering as I can, don't want to let the mother in law down )