My 2000 Acura TL 3.2 had a engine light on yesterday. After I read this forum, I took my car to Autozone and done code reading for free.(Thank you ACURAZINE!) The result was P0740

Problem causes
1. Low fluid level
2. Poor fluid quality
3. Defective converter clutch
4. Internal Transmission Failure

It lighted up while I was driving but it runs without any problems. I guess all I need to do is change Transmission Fluid flush?? Or should I take mechanic to check them up? I read similar case but I didn't get definite answer what needs to be done.

I posted same thread in 1st generation section by mistake but don't know how to delete it. Sorry for the duplication.

 

I think that might be a failed torque converter. If my memory is right, you need a new tranny. Take it to the dealership.

 

First off welcome to the forum.

2nd, how many miles are on the car

 

It's over 150k. Is that bad idea just do transmission fluid flush and see how it goes?

 

Rule of thumb is that if you dont know when that last time you did flush the trans don't do it. With 150k you can kill the trans after a flush, if you've been keeping up with the service schedule, you'll be OK.

 

So what should I do from here. I guess my question is what is the best and cheapest way to take care of this problem?

 

I own a 02 tl so I dont know if its exactly the same fix but I had the P0740 DEATH code and my torque converter had gone out and I basically had no 3rd gear left. I had metal shavings spread through my tranny and since I was out of warranty 129000 miles I had a rebuilt tranny put in for 2500$ You could have the dealer do a brand new one for $3600. Sorry about the bad news. Oh yeah by the way does your tranny slip between 2nd and 3rd gear and 3rd and 4th gear? Thats a sure sign you need a new tranny. Good luck.

 

150,000 for a 5 speed AT is a marvelous run anyway, good luck, and just make sure you find a trust worthy shop that can get you a good trans for the swap, I don't know what to look for but I've read that those built after 2005 dont suffer the 3rd clutch wearing down issue, but thats wikipedia, so I dunno if its 100% accurate.

 

Odds are its on its way out. You may want to bring it to acura and see if they can work sometype of goodwill with you

 

Thank you everybody for your advice. Now I have to find a good shop......... but it's more than I can afford right now. I don't have to drive a lot, maybe 10-20 miles a day. If I drove less than 10 miles a day, could I make it till February? That would be a great help for me.

Dealer said it would cost me $100 for diagnosis and will apply to the repair cost if I use them. Or should I take to Acura specialist shop for better price?

 

I would still go to the dealer and see if some sort of good will can be applied to the trans. Many members have had good luck with acura picking up the tab on the trans, you just pay for labor. Some have even gotten it for free. Only way to know is to go. You may alos want to contact acura client services and talk to them personally

 

I guess I should do the diagnosis and ask their opinion about how long I can wait. I will take it to the dealer and follow up later. Thanks again for your help.

 

you dont understand the system- in a nutshell:
the diagnosis fee is a legal requirement that says you allow them to inspect your car- that proves they are not stripping it for parts/stolen car in their possession.
It also protects the dealer when someone wants a complex problem diagnosed and then plans to take it somewhere else for repairs. Why should they work for free?
As soon as trans failure- or any warranty issue- is diagnosed, a warranty work order is printed and the factory picks up the diagnosis fee- you pay nothing.
If you speak with the Service MANAGER and ask for help financially, they can do many things. Another member with a 99, 3 years past time limit- acura just offered 90% they pay!
You are over the miles- so what. Acura responds to genuine people and common courtesy.
Calling the 800 number can lead to frustration talking with a minimum wage person who is trained to say NO
Go speak with the Mananger and get the car looked at.
It can go out at any time, and usually chooses the worst moment whenever possible