99 Lumina Automatic Shift linkage Problem?

Would start by checking linkage or the cable that runs to tranny. Tranny fluid level is correct? Check fluid level first. Run 15-20 mins and check with motor warmed and running

if the clutch really is working, (lever at bell moves 3/4")
by fine, my guess, is you can take off from dead stop in2nd, right>?
then its a bad shifter. tip.
or linkage (end tranny extension housing)
or transmission actual core.(shift rails, or forks) or worse.
you do know ,that you can disconnect the linkage and test tranny.
by hand,
key off
leakage off
shift to neutral (read the FSM or alldata.com) for how. under M/T sections.
then key on start engine,clutch depressed, the lift pedel
car moves its stuck in 2nd, of not bad linkage.
can do all gears that way, use 2 people and do not stand infront of car doing test.
or put the front wheels up on stands. but do not get near them.
while engine is running.
btw some shifters have plastic parts that go bad in the shifter tip.

or ,
jack up car in front, can you now shift car in to neutral or any gear?
linkage tests.
remove shifter housing and below see the shifter, H pattern
sifter box mechanism.
see that. you can shift that by hand with any small wrench or
large screwdriver, if the works the parts on the end of the shifter
handle main shaft tip are bad.

If it's a manual and it's stuck in 3rd gear, it could be the clutch master or slave cylinder does not have enough hydraulic fluid to release the clutch.

If it's an automatic, then there is an internal problem to the transmission. Possibly the shift solenoid is plugged up or damaged or defective.

If it's an automatic and you can't shift out of the 3rd gear, at the shifter, then there is a problem with the transmission linkage, maybe.

suspect low fluid level. check trans fluid in park with the engine running.If level is correct then most likely you have major trouble.

possible internal problem, ck sun gear in the trans input shaft could be stripped out it would cause that problem.

sounds like you linkage to the transmission is out of adjustment.
would help to know if it is standard or automatic tranny

sounds like loose linkages in the shift lever .try this first. much cheaper than new tranny.....

check fluid level, make sure proper fluid is in transmission otherwise take to trans shop to diagnse if level and type is correct(check at idle normal operating temp)

I believe you mean it is a manual tranny. I believe the shift fork in the tranny is messed up or the linkage from the shifter to tranny is diconnected. In order to check the linkage pull the car up on ramps and lock the rear brakes. Find the shifter under the car and follow the linkages to the tranny. The shift fork will have to be checked at the shop.

take it back to transmission shop that did the work, or have towed back on their ticket

shack