Not shifting into passing gear

'Passing gear' is a term that means the transmission is down-shifted to a lower gear (e.g., from 5th gear to 4th gear) for improved acceleration to pass another vehicle. There is no physical component called a passing gear in the transmission.
To engage the 'passing gear' with an automatic transmission should require nothing more than pressing the accelerator pedal down firmly. The transmission should downshift automatically to the next lower gear (sometimes it will downshift two gear ratios, depending on your speed and how far you depress the accelerator pedal).

ahh is this a standard shift? 3/4/5 speed? if-so, then drop down a gear and floor it! if it is auto-matic there was no passing gear in that tranny?!lol.

sounds pretty normal. what speed do you try out the passing gear? anything above 35-45 mph and it will feel like neutral. Passing gear is actually only 1st gear. When you press down the pedal, it forces the transmisson to shift into low gear.

passing gear adjustment needs adjusting--unless qualified--take it to transmission garage. If electronic--the switch may be bad.

1997 GMC Subburban 1500 loses Tach Speedo and Trans sticks in High Gear. I changed the ignition Starter switch which I read was the problem but problem is intermittant and still exist? AMMCO told me to try changing the Neutral Saftey switch first, but didn't say why?

Bring the vehicle to a transmission repair shop there they will scann the vehicle for codes and do the repairs that the codes list.
By your write up I would like to pressure test the main line pressure before I say anything.
I'm hoping its the shift solenoids.
Good luck

i have 700r want shift out of 1st gear what could it be?

Your problem likely resides with the hydraulic valve that operates the band for second gear, or lack of hydraulic pressure in the transmission. If the actuator in the transmission that operates second gear is getting sticky, then it will cause this. A filter change and flush may help, but it's likely time to start looking for someone to tear down your transmission, or replace it.

almost without exception start in first. this will save your clutch. try to keep your car in the highest gear you can but keep your engine rpms above 1500. if you need to pass you can down shift one gear, pass then get back to top gear. the best way to learn is to drive. every car is diffrent.

You could try fuel filter or just your basic tune up.