Cause
Faulty skip shift solenoid
The solenoid that forces a first-to-fourth change under light load on some manual transmissions, faulty. It exists for fuel economy testing and locks out second and third at low throttle openings, which drivers universally dislike.
Failed engaged, the lockout is permanent and the gearbox refuses second and third at any throttle, which is the complaint. Failed disengaged, nothing happens at all except a stored code — the vehicle simply drives as though the feature were absent, which most owners would prefer. Check the circuit at the solenoid, and be aware that an aftermarket eliminator fitted to defeat the feature produces the identical code by design, so establish whether one is present before ordering a part.
Typically a moderate job.
Codes this can cause (1)
Codes where this is a likely explanation first, rather than merely a possible one.
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