So my '04 is getting very, very old (207K) and I was presented an opportunity to buy an '08 with 120K for $8000 (with navi, backup cameras, in very good condition). I test drove the car and noticed that the transmission was shifting a but rougher in the newer model. Especially when downshifting. The newer model has always been very well taken care of (a family member owns it), but the jerky/jumpy downshifting really worries me.

Does anyone know if the transmissions are the same on these models? If not, is there any reason why it might be downshifting roughly if the transmission has no major issues? I know it has had all routine maintenance done up to this point, but I've read that the transmission can last anywhere between 50K & 200K in these cars. My '04 still has the original tranny at 207K (although I had to get the 3rd gear pressure switch changed a while back).

Anyone here had or driven both? All advice is greatly appreciated.

 

TL-S has harsher downshifts than the 3.2TL for 2007-2008 models. The transmission uses 4 shafts in the 2007-2008 model vs 3 for the 2004-2006. Also a number of improvements were made in the valve body and torque converter over time to help reduce failure rates.

Changing of the switches may have a large impact on shift quality. As well, swapping out to new fluid may help.

Mileage isn't the best indicator of wear as your 207K could be all highway vs 120K of purely city with many more shifts with wear and tear.

Here's pricing data for the 3.2L:



Type S:



From what you've said the price is, you could get a rebuilt trans in the future for 2K and still be ahead of the game!

 

Are the shifts actually rougher, or are they just more noticeable and abrupt? A transmission where you can't feel the shifts will sometimes fail before one that has crisp noticeable shifts. A firm shifting transmission doesn't spend time slowly meshing gears together so that you don't notice it, it purposely fits the gears together so that they don't wear down as much. At least, that's what I was taught.

 

OP what you experiencing is so called "rev matching" only available in the 07-08 model, they are quite annoying at first but after time you will get used to it. Rev match basically rev the motor up to certain RPM during down shift and then engage the transmission. This help reduce the wear on the gear box and prolong the drive train, Eric the car guy made a video explaining about hard shifting vs soft shifting in the early AT and later on AT gear box. Changing the ATF and pressure switches will smooth out the rough shift.

 

08 AT

You might want to try the following for hard shifts in all gears.

1. 3x3 and AT external filter change.

Test drive after No. 1 service. Continue to No. 2 if problems persist.

2. Replace the following solenoids...

A. Pressure A

B. Input Shalf - Mainshaft

C. Output Shalf - Countershaft

D. ATF Temperature Sensor


I recommend OEM parts and ATF - DW1 only. Exception, AT external filter... aftermarket is ok.

 

07-08 has internal ATF filter, you can't replace it unless the whole trans being disassemble. At your points it would be much easier get a whole new trans all for a rought shifting, To be honest on all the sport sedan I drove all of them has hard shifting. I drove a 09 ISF with 40k miles on the clock and notice it shift hard if not harder than my TL and I am pretty sure that lexus AT last much longer than Acura/Honda product.

 

^ Ok forget the filter.

The solenoids are external and service able. Worth a try before changing the trans.

Be sure to check the three screens at the bottom of the three small pipes below Pressure Solenoid A (Actually A/B - one unit).

 

Thanks given to all for the input.

csmeance - The '08 is not a Type S, but both cars are mostly highway miles. The new one isn't mint condition but close. A few minor exterior scratches and two mechanical issues - one being a fuel sensor (says tighten fuel cap at least once when the tank is between full and 3/4 full, and there is an intermittent O2 sensor issue).

MarcoNorthPolo - Chive on brother!! I have a BFM sticker on my 04 and I'll have to order a new one for the 08! What the seller told me aligned with your point on firm shifting, I just thought it was odd that my 04 shifted so smooth and the 08 was a bit rough (at least when downshifting).

truongthe - That's exactly the info I was looking for. When I first rode in the car years ago I thought it seemed quite rough, that would explain it perfectly.

01acls - where does that info come from? Seems to be solid advice, just curious. Are there any directions on how to change these myself? My local Acura dealer charged me $300 to replace my 3rd gear pressure switch in my 04 (which I now understand can easily be done if you take out the battery).

After researching further on this board (and based on the above suggestions, obviously), I think my best way forward is to change out the switches and do the 3x3 fluid changes. If it's still very rough, I'll move on to 01acls's suggestions.

The most amazing part of all of this? My '04 has the original tranny, with 207K+ and I've only had one issue (the 3rd pressure switch mentioned above). It still runs very strong!

 

My info is per 07/08 TL service manual.

Plenty of info in the 2g TL side.

Below is a link to Acura e Store.


Acura online store : 2008 tl at sensor - solenoid parts