99 protege, problems getting into Drive
 

For the last few months, I have been having a problem getting my car into Drive. It is most noticable if I leave my car overnight, then try to start it in the morning. There are no problems starting the car, and I can reverse with no problems. When I put it into Drive, it acts as if the car is still in neutral. I can rev the engine, but it doesn't seem to "catch." Eventually after about 30 seconds of slight revving, it will start going forward normally. Once it gets going, I don't have any problems. If I turn the car off, then try it again a few minutes later, there is a slight jerk but it usually starts going almost right away. It seems like it almost has to do with the engine having to heat up.

Also, every once in a while, I will also see my overdrive light start flashing on and off. Clicking the overdrive button does nothing, but if I restart the car it usually doesn't come back on. I'm not sure if this is related.

Any ideas what might be going on here?

In the morning you need to let your car warm up for about 7-10 minutes. The oil needs to get at the normal running condition to function properly. If I was you I would check my oil and fluids, and possibly disconnect the battery for a few minutes and restart the computer to see if the overdrive light comes back on?

I drive a standard so I have no clue lol. :confused:

I gave that a shot and let the engine warm up for 5+ minutes. I still had the same problem as usual.

As far as oil goes, I change it every 3000 miles and I never notice any difference in behavior after I do. I assume this doesn't matter too much but the dipstick is broken, so all I have is the cap that fits in, the rod part has broken off.

What other fluids would you recommend I check? Transmission fluid? I'm not sure when the last time was this was changed. (Forgive me I know nothing about cars)

check shift cable for stretching . there was a posting about this problem by oldeng
I think. that maybe helpful

type "transmission slipping" in search menu choice on top menu bar. Blinking OD light is a transmission problem. Suggest you have mazda mechanic check it out. good luck