David1221

Last night my transmission started slipping really bad. I pushed the gas and it would rev and eventually catch. Sometimes it would auto downshift too, which felt like someone was slamming on the brakes. Is my transmission screwed, or can this be fixed?

fsttyms1

Trans screwed. You can try changing the trans fluid (3x3 method) to take out the solenoids and sensors and clean them and see if it works again but odd are the damage is done.

David1221

what is the 3 x 3 method?

fsttyms1

Drain, fill, drive for a few min, Repeat 2 more times.

3.2TLc

Hey David1221, are you getting a CEL or any other warning lights ?
If so, have the codes read. How does the fluid's level and appearance ? Try a 3x3 fluid replacement and cleaning solenoids as Fsttyms1 suggested......sort of a last ditch effort !

These trannys are electronically controlled.....check all wiring connections, grounds, sensors and solenoids. Also ensure that your charging system, particularily the alternator are in good working order as this can cause gremlins to come out.

David1221

I am sometimes getting the TCS light. The tranny is screwed. I tried to make it to a shop this morning and barely made it 2 miles. I do alot of work on my car but I do not know transmissions. The car will only move for a second after i start it and then it just revs up with no movement. It's just done. It is the original and it went 222,500 miles so that's not too bad. I'm having it rebuilt and I was quoted 1,000 to 1,700 walk out. That includes a tow and a 3 year 36,ooo mile warranty so I'm pretty happy with that. Some people think I'm stupid for not walking away from it but my TL is a good car and stuff like this happens. I'm pretty sure this car will run for 500,000 plus as long as I keep maintaining it.

3.2TLc

Hey David1221, your TL has served you well !
If indeed the tranny was the original at 222,500......it beat all the odds. What year is your TL and was the recall service work done when issued ? I have a 2000 @ 170k on the original tranny, so you have given me some inspiration. What was your secret formula for the longevity......driving habits, fluid changes, etc. ?????

If you've had such a good experience and relationship with your TL, I think giving the old girl a new lease on life is a good decision on your behalf. I assume that a private shop is doing the rebuild considering the estimated quote. The 3yr./36k warranty is what counts down the road with our funky tranny's. Make sure that the shop replaces the rear main seal and the drive axle seals. It's also a good time to do the mounts if they have not been replaced recently. These things are only added costs for the necessary parts, as the labor should be part of the tranny R&R. The various sensors, solenoids and filter should also be replaced at this time for extra peace of mind.....to attain 500k !!!!!!

David1221

No real secret other than routine maintenence. It has been a great car and still drives very well. It is at the shop right now. The guy told me that it is a very well built and well designed transmission, so I guess I got a good one since it is all original. I'm still waiting for the estimate and the final verdict on what's wrong, but I'd rather fix this car and keep on rolling knowing that I have a quality vehicle rather than taking a chance on another car that might fail alot sooner than this one. 222,500 miles on an original tranny that people can't seem to stop complaining about seems like a win to me.

David1221

Well the shop has had my TL for almost 2 weeks. The guy finally admitted today that the TL is a work of art but it is very picky. They are having trouble with reprogramming the computer apparently. I have been told that te car runs like a dream until you turn it off. When it starts back up the transmission doesn't engage, even though it's completely rebuilt with all new Acura parts. Of course that 1,700 dollar job is now 3,400. I don't care, I just want my TL back! Ha ha! I will say that I was told that my engine and mounts, etc are in outstanding shape. The car has 223,000 and he said it sounds great and runs like it's new. That's why I'm forking out the money for the rebuilt tranny.