* Transmission Issues (Most Likely):
* Torque Converter Lockup: The torque converter might be failing to lock up properly. This component connects the engine to the transmission, and if it's malfunctioning, it can severely limit power transfer to the wheels.
* Transmission Solenoids/Valves: These control fluid flow within the transmission. A faulty solenoid or valve can prevent the transmission from shifting into higher gears.
* Low Transmission Fluid: Check your transmission fluid level *immediately*. Low fluid can cause serious damage and this is a relatively easy and cheap first check. The fluid should be bright red; dark brown or burnt smelling fluid indicates a serious problem.
* Internal Transmission Damage: This could be anything from worn clutches and bands to more severe internal damage. This is the most expensive potential repair.
* Engine Issues (Less Likely, but possible contributing factor):
* Throttle Position Sensor (TPS): A faulty TPS might not be sending the correct signal to the engine control module (ECM), restricting power.
* Mass Airflow Sensor (MAF): A dirty or faulty MAF sensor can also lead to incorrect fuel/air mixture calculations, resulting in reduced power. (Less likely to cause this specific RPM limitation though).
What to do:
1. Check the transmission fluid: This is the absolute first step. If the level is low, you'll need to add fluid (the correct type for your transmission - check your owner's manual). If it's low and dark, expect expensive repairs.
2. Have a professional diagnose the problem: Don't attempt to fix this yourself unless you have extensive transmission repair experience. A mechanic with diagnostic tools can scan for transmission codes and determine the precise cause of the problem. Trying to troubleshoot this blindly could lead to further and more expensive damage.
3. Avoid driving the vehicle: Continuing to drive it with this issue could cause catastrophic damage to the transmission, making the repair far more costly.
The fact that the RPMs are capped around 1100 strongly suggests a transmission is the primary suspect. Get it checked by a professional immediately.
