How does a transmission behave in limp mode?

When a transmission enters limp mode, it allows only a single gear to engage. This is a protective feature designed to prevent further damage to the vehicle's transmission or related components when the system detects a fault or malfunction. In this mode, the vehicle may typically be limited to third gear, which allows for basic operation while restricting functionality to avoid complications that could arise from shifting through different gears under unstable conditions. By locking the transmission in a single gear, limp mode enables the driver to navigate the vehicle safely, albeit at a reduced performance level, until the issue can be diagnosed and resolved. This is crucial for preventing total breakdowns that could leave the vehicle inoperable.