'97 cherokee.

It just started doing this: When in the 'D' position, it won't go into 1st gear (it just revs and doesn't move from a stop). If I manually shift into 1st, it works fine, and I can then shift into 'D' and drive as normal (until I come to stop, then I have to shift into 1st manually to get going again).

This was happening, then the car completely died on the road, and I took it in, and they replaced the computer, and it started running again, but the shifting problem remained.

I took it to a transmission shop, they replaced the MLPS switch, but the problem remains.

They want to take the truck for a week and do a bunch of diagnostics on it. They believe it to be something electrical at this point.

Any ideas?

Definitely sounds like something electrical, when you "manually" shift it into first you are bypassing the electronics.


There are several possibilities including:
-Bad TPS (throttle position sensor), this would likely be a good place to start because it is cheap and easy to replace (and has a high failure rate).
-Wiring problems (anything between the TCU, sensors and trans is possible).
-Bad TCU (transmission control unit), unlikely, but possible.
-Bad Solenoid(s).

I'll start with those suggestions - thank you very much!

Sounds like the Solenoid A is sticking.

You guys are awesome. Thanks so much.

I tried to replace the TPS yesterday, but succeeded only in striping the bolts that hold the old one in. I'm probably going to take it to a real mechanic for that.

I'll look into solenoid A - maybe I can handle that :P

Was this ever solved I'm having the same issue?

I had a similar issue with my ’97 Cherokee a while back. It turned out to be a problem with the transmission control module (TCM), which wasn’t reading the inputs right, causing the shifting issues. I’d also check the wiring around the TCM and MLPS switch – sometimes those connectors can be a bit finicky on older vehicles. I’d recommend letting them dig into the electrical system, but also keep an eye on the transmission fluid and ask them to check for any sticking valves. It sounds like they’re on the right track with the diagnostics.

First thing to check would be the fuse for the trans computer. If the trans computer has power, then the next most likely culprit is the #1 shift solenoid or damaged wiring to the transmission. A halfway decent trans shop should have tested those, but at least they didn't immediately try to sell you a rebuilt transmission. You'll need a meter to test the solenoids. Resistance should be 11-15 ohms.