So, in an attempt to be responsible, I decided to take my CRD to a reputable local transmission shop a couple of months ago and get the fluid and filters replaced, since I wasn't sure when it was last done. They service a lot of these 545rfe transmissions, so I figure no problem. A few weeks later, I notice that there's some fluid dripping out around the side of the pan. I take it in, they tell me some bolts probably vibrated loose, and that they tightened it up, and all is well. Now, a month later, I'm about to head out for a 700 mile trip. I put it in reverse and there's a harsh engagement. I back out of the drive. Another harsh engagement putting it into drive. I start down the street and the check engine light comes on...and, I realize that the Jeep won't shift out of first gear....arghhh. What's the deal? Is this just a fluid level issue? I made sure they were putting ATF+4 in there, so I don't think that's the problem. Also, only 68,000 miles...and probably pampered miles at that. I'm thinking they probably didn't spend as much time perfecting the fluid level the second time...would this be an appropriate symptom?

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David T.
**DEAD**2005 CRD Limited 4X4 - Stone White **DEAD**
116,000 miles
RRO Rockfather Deluxe Lift (OME/KYB GR-2/RRO)
GDE Eco Tune
SAMCO Sport CAC Hoses
Hayden Fan Clutch
Updated Litens Serpentine Tensioner
European Graf Water Pump
Nitro Rear Diff Cover w/Lubelocker Gasket

Yeah. They probably went by the dipstick, which in our vehicle is about 2" too long (seriously). Add about a pint and see if that helps things. Put it through the dipstick tube, just roll up some paper and make a tiny hole funnel, and take your time.

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Silver 2006 KJ 2.8L CRD Limited:
GDE ECO Tune / Fumoto Valve / E-Tecno GX3123 7v Glow Plugs / 2nd Gen Fuel Head / Mishimoto RED Hoses / Rockers/Lifters @ 114k / Hayden FC + 11 Blade Nylon / Sears P1 Battery / Transgo 45RFE-HD2 Reprogramming Kit / Timken Front Bearings

Or you can buy a narrow neck funnel from one of the autoparts stores for few bucks. Btw, paper funnel is quite ingenious!

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2005 kj CRD, samco, suncoast tc, provent, Kennedy lift pump, GDE ECO full torque, 2nd gen filter head, 245/70/16 a/t tires, mopar light bar, fumoto oil valve, OEM Skid Plates, ARB Front bumper and HD OME, tru cool LPD47391 40k GVW tranny cooler (stock cooler delete), FF Dynamics e-fan and shroud, rocker arms replaced, HDS2 190F thermostat.

Okay...the tranny shop tells me that there is a problem with the solenoid pack. I see that this is a common problem with this transmission, and that there's even an updated design. Obviously, sooner or later, this would fail. However, I can't help but wonder about the timing...it's only been a couple of months and a couple thousand miles since I had the fluid and filters changed....did a gremlin sneak in there while it was being serviced?? Guess I was spoiled with my last trucklet...the 5 speed Suzuki never had a real tranny problem for the 210,000 miles I owned it. Oh well, guess I might as well get this taken care of....

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David T.
**DEAD**2005 CRD Limited 4X4 - Stone White **DEAD**
116,000 miles
RRO Rockfather Deluxe Lift (OME/KYB GR-2/RRO)
GDE Eco Tune
SAMCO Sport CAC Hoses
Hayden Fan Clutch
Updated Litens Serpentine Tensioner
European Graf Water Pump
Nitro Rear Diff Cover w/Lubelocker Gasket