No wait! I think you miss understood me. Continuing to drive the car while it is in bang shift mode will kill the tranny. Bang shift (limp home/failsafe) can be caused by a number of factors from bad sensors, sticking valve body and slippage.
Do not go to the dealer! All they know how to do is replace it not fix it. Find a good shop and have them do an electronic and line/CT pressure test. You may only need valve body service (sticking 3-4 valve or solenoid assy).
jeff
