Hi All,

Just bought a new-to-me 2004 Acura TL w/ 84k miles. Unsure if the tranny fluid has been serviced. Its shifts a little hard and jerky (for my tastes) and I want to drain/refill trans fluid. Should I do 3x3 or just drain all fluid out and replace with the genuine Honda fluid? The guy at the Honda dealer said that I could just drain and refill, but he wasn't a tech just an advisor. He ended up selling me 4 qts of fluid and a new washer for the plug. Suggestions/Thoughts?

 

I would suggest doing a search on the subject, there is hours of reading on the subject. One very important item along with at least a 3X3 flush (3 qts at a time) is to replace the 3rd and 4th gear pressure switches and the internal oil filter, all the how to do it info is all posted on this site. The type of fluid is up to you but I'm using the Redline mix in my 06 and have done 6X3 flushes so far with great results, Redline is probably the best ATF you can buy but a bit expensive at $10-12 a qt. but far less expensive than a rebuild, just do a search and start reading. http://www.brisdance.com/Honda/AT3rdClutch.html I suggest reading this article on the pressure switches..

 

best to do a 3x3 over an afternoon while driving in between. I'd change the washer on the last one as they tend to leak after being tightened over 3-4 times.

I would also suggest you change the transmission filter and invest in new pressure switches for 3rd and 4th gear. Those all together will be an incredible improvement.

If you buy a case of fluid (12 quarts) there is usually a discount. I'd "return" the 4 quarts you bought and just buy a case of 12. I recommend Acura/Honda DW1 fluid.

 

Thanks, I plan to tackle the switches next weekend when they hopefully make it to my mailbox. Since I only have 4 qts could I drain/refill what I have and do it again when I get the chance to buy more in the coming weeks?

 

Yes, do it now and then if you wish, again anytime.

 

DW1 Honda ATF is good, Redline D4 ATF is better.

Whichever you pick, I'd do each of the drain and fills spread out over a week or two.