'05 TL w/ 160,630K miles. Today while on the freeway, I noticed that the rpm's on my engine would rev, but not accelerate, when trying to accelerate past 60mph. I also noticed a weird engine smell, and saw some smoke. I pulled over to the side/stopped, and then experienced issues going from 1st to 2nd (rpm revving issue). I used the sport shifter, and was able to accelerate to about 40mph, before the same rpm revving issue. I continued driving until I got to a Pep Boys (they checked the fluids [full, but dirty]/referred me to AAMCO), and then to AAMCO. Didn't get a diagnostic there, as the wait was too long. On my way home, I was able to drive normally w/o the sport shifter, and go above 60mph. There was no more smoke, but I did still detect the weird smell.

I'm pissed because I suspect the transmission is going out, and a technician at a prior PepBoys had told me that all the transmissions go out on the TL's, and that it was just a matter of time. He told me this 3 days ago! I don't know if I got jinxed, or sabotaged... Any suggestions on where to get transmission service in the Los Angeles area, or which re-manufactured transmission to buy/have installed? I think I'm going to get the car checked at an AAMCO tomorrow, and see what they say.

 

04-06 transmissions are considered less robust than the refined 07-08 transmissions.
your rev issue sounds like transmission is slipping, so yes its on its way out

 

That’s his Gut(I) feeling.

..but really, it’s on its way out..

 

Before you do the unnecessary like replace or rebuild the transmission which could cost above $1000+ you might want to consider what I am going through. I too have a 05 TL, tranny has about 170,000 miles about two weeks ago the car went into "Limp Mode", (wouldn't accelerate over 30 mph) pull the code and turns out to be the APP Sensor (37971-RBB-003) part cost $300.00. If this is the same related problem, have it diagnostically check before you pull the trigger on a new Tranny.