Hi everyone. I'm new to this forum so I need a little help. I just bought a used 2003 TL w/52K miles on it. It was manufacture in 07/03 and the VIN is .....088801. So I heard these late model doesn't experience much transmission as those earlier. But it still has the same engine...so the chance that it break down are still high. And the worst part is my warranty has expired at 50k mile.

I never drove a V6 before so the driving experience is a little different from a 4-cylinders. So what I'm experience might not be a transmission problem, just a different driving experience. When I drive around 40mph and let go of the gas there is a downshift and i can feel it. Plus, it also downshift when i hit the break, I can feel it a little bit...it's not a hard jerking. Is that how the transmission is design or problem?

Once more thing, my transmission fluid is a little brownish and low. I did some research and believe that the previous owner has not change it yet. If not, is it too later for me to flush it now?...since I heard it bad to flush transmission fluid at high mileage. By the way, I was thinking if I should have the transmission fluid change before taking it to the dealer to have them look at the transmission? Since the problem could be the fluid...I don't want to pay twice to have them look at it before and after fluid change.

I appreciated all advices and opinions. Thanks.

 

Most likely what your feeling is the grade logic trying to slow you down. Motor has Nothing to do with these failures and the stats are wrong, all 03 vin #s are prone to problems just like the 00-03 are. You may want to schedule a appt with teh dealer to have the fluid changed. It will also show maintenance to the car so that if it does ever fail you may have more leverage with the dealer and honda to good will you a new one. Also while your there bring up the weird symptoms with them.

 

Hey, fsttyms1. Thanks for the advice. Dealer price is going to be way over the roof for transmission fluid change. The price they gave me was $250. I can have this done at Aamco for $150 and they said I can request Honda ATF-Z1 fluid. They will do a transmission flush, don't know if I should trust their service.

When it comes to car...I'm a beginner. What does 'gear slippage' actually mean? What do I need to pay attention to check if it actually slip or not?