pbatmen

I am having a weird issue with my trans around the 2-3k RPM range, the rpms sputter and its like the trans does not know to downshift or upshift. I have to put my foot on the gas to have the tranny downshift or get off it completely. I have a 168,000 miles on the car and have changed the auto fluid and filter at 150,000. i have read on this forum that there is a trans solenoid that goes bad but i don't know if that is it or a problem with the trans.

843de

It might not be mechanical in origin, have you had the Check Engine Light come on in the recent past?

pbatmen

no check engine lights or anything, i thought it might have been a bad tank of gas but it is happening more frequently lately.

843de

Two things I'd do first.

Scoot to your local parts store like Advance, Autozone, etc., and have them pull the codes, even though you aren't having a CEL...there might be codes stored.

The other thing is to disconnect your negative battery cable for a minimum of five minutes to let the assorted modules reset themselves, sometimes this cures odd driveability issues. But only do this after you've had the codes pulled.

Also, check each and every fuse in the under-hood fuse box, make sure they're all seated firmly, and check the box itself to make sure it isn't loose.

Barring everything else, you may have a failing TCM(Trans Control Module), or a possible shift solenoid problem in the transmission itself.

Keep us posted, especially if the vehicle does have codes set, post them up because they can point in the right direction for a diagnosis.

pbatmen

thanks, i will see if there is any codes, disconnect the battery and check the fuses.

pbatmen

no codes on the OB II reader, all the fuses seem fine and everything tight, unplugged my battery and haven't had the problem yet, but I only dorve the car to work which is only 25 miles or so. If it persists I will post again and try a TCM. thanks

843de

Thanks for the update.

pbatmen

it is still doing it, it is around between 2k and 3k on the tach, I might have been mistaken on my earlier post but it is quite weird.

firemangeorge

Unfortunatly it's time for a visit to a transmission shop. Get a diagnosis and quote.
Unless you are in the transmission business, these modern FWD trans. problems can be a pain to figure out. Best left to the pros. No sense in throwing parts at it.
Good luck.

pbatmen

thanks for all the help and advice, I think I might try a new TCM before I go to the pros. I think rock auto has it for 15 bucks, I am ordering other things there anyway so might as well give it a shot.