Hey all,

I have a 2010 6-speed TSX and what a joy it is to drive. Like most of you guys, I have that problematic 3rd gear pop-out, grind, however you want to call it. With 49,xxx miles I do 70 highway / 30 city driving. Decided to see if changing fluid will alleviate the problem even though manufacturer specs call for changing it at 100,000 or somewhere around there.

The change itself took a mere 10 minutes. Some youtubing and articles here gave me a good idea of what bolts to look for. Also DIY'd a funnel and hose contraption to get that oil in from the engine bay. I did have it jacked up but with the little tools I had and no extra jack stands to make it level I did what I could, just approximated. FWIW, I drained 2 qts and filled 2 qts. Didn't think the 3x3 was necessary hopefully it'll be ok for at least another 30K miles.

For those who are trying this for the first time, that undercover body is a real pita! My '03 TL didn't have this and changing fluids was a piece of cake. The bolts connecting the silver aluminum? cover to the black plastic that connects to the front bumper and either ends of the wheel well were rusted. I believe it was 6 bolts, 3 on each side. I'd wish Acura used some sort of plastic tie that made it easier to take off since I tore off one of the bolts and the holder in frustration. I also believe those black snap buttons are reusable to certain point but I broke a few which means a trip to the dealer or some online source.

It feels slightly better after the change. 3rd gear no longer needs to be "forced" in, rather a slight push. However the other gears can be used with just a few fingers with a "nudge". More driving needs to be done to feel how the shift goes.

 

a drain and fill is all that is needed.

and what fluid did you use?
the GM syncromesh friction modified has cured my 3rd gear pop out!
I do change out the fluid every 30k miles

 

3rd gear popout is a known issue that plagues ALL K-series transmissions

syncromesh with friction modifier is a good bandaid but if your vehicle is under any warranty, there is a TSB for the 3rd gearset

 

Honda MTF fluid. I didn't see a TSB for the 3rd gear, is it for the TSX?

 

I think the ACDelco 88900399 is the only one available now?...same stuff, fixed my 3rd gear too , ready for another change this weekend!

 

I am trying to find it, this is what I have so far, and it is pretty much the same transmission (k series)

http://www.8thcivic.com/forums/attac...ay-a08-020.pdf

Transmission Grinds When Shifting Into 3rd Gear, Pops Out of 3rd Gear, or
Is Hard to Shift Into 3rd Gear

SYMPTOM
The 6-speed manual transmission grinds when shifting
into 3rd gear, pops out of 3rd gear, or is hard to shift
into 3rd gear.
NOTE: These symptoms can be intermittent and
sometimes more noticeable in colder climates.

PROBABLE CAUSE
The transmission has a faulty 3rd gear synchronizer or
3-4 shift sleeve.
CORRECTIVE ACTION
Replace the 3rd gear set.
VEHICLES AFFECTED
2003–07 Accord V6 with M/T: ALL
2008 Accord V6 with M/T 2-Door:
From VIN 1HGCS218.8A000001
thru 1HGCS218.8A003478
2006–07 Civic Si 2-Door: ALL
2008 Civic Si 2-Door:
From VIN 2HGFG215.8H700001
thru 2HGFG215.8H701973
2007 Civic Si 4-Door: ALL
2008 Civic Si 4-Door:
From VIN 2HGFA555.8H700001
thru 2HGFA555.8H702465

 

^ummm my J-series engine displays this third gear pop out.

also, S2K's display this as well.
its not specifically tied to the K-series.


when looking for the A/C delco replacement fluid, YOU HAVE TO MAKE SURE IT SAYS "Friction Modified"
or else its the wrong one.