Camry Transmission Issues

I drive a Camry too, and your symptoms sound familiar to what I went through last year. The emergency mode, slipping, and grinding noises are concerning. Before diving into the sensor, have you checked the transmission fluid level? A low level can throw off the temperature readings because the sensor isn't fully submerged, and it's the easiest thing to check. The transmission is complex, and the oil lubricates and cools the components.

Thanks for the quick response. I appreciate the insight. I'll re-check the transmission fluid level meticulously. Besides the level, is there anything I should look for when assessing the fluid? Any signs of contamination or degradation that might point to a fluid-related issue rather than a sensor malfunction?

Definitely check the fluid condition while you're at it. It should be a relatively clear, reddish color. If it's dark, smells burnt, or has metal particles in it, that's a sign of serious wear and tear within the transmission. While a sensor issue is possible, degraded or low fluid is a far more common culprit for the symptoms you're describing. Honestly, with those symptoms, if the fluid is anything less than pristine, I'd strongly advise getting it to a reputable workshop for a proper diagnosis. You might save money by addressing the fluid issue before it causes permanent damage.

After thoroughly checking the transmission oil level, I confirmed it was significantly low. I took your advice and brought the car to a workshop. As suspected, the low oil level was the primary cause, leading to the faulty temperature sensor readings. The repair, including topping up the oil and replacing the sensor, cost 365€. Thanks for pointing me in the right direction!