3.1 Basic Troubleshooting Principles

In order for automatic transmission troubleshooting to provide meaningful results, the engine must be in good condition and properly tuned. See ENGINE for troubleshooting engine problems.

Inspect the transaxle for external damage, loose or missing fasteners, and for any obvious leaks. Check both the ATF and the final drive hypoid oil levels. The transmission and final drive use completely separate fluids. If the ATF level is too low and there is no sign of leakage, it may be because ATF is leaking into the final drive. Check for abnormally high final drive oil level. See LUBRICATION AND MAINTENANCE.

Many automatic transmission problems can be traced to an incorrect ATF level, to contaminated ATF, or to misadjusted transmission controls. Check for leaks, check the ATF level, and check to see if the fluid is dirty or has a burned odor. A burned odor indicates overheated fluid, which may be accompanied by burned clutches or brake bands. Friction material may be clogging the valve body passages.

Less severe automatic transmission problems may be solved merely by correcting the ATF level, by draining the ATF and refilling the transmission with new fluid as described in LUBRICATION AND MAINTENANCE, or by inspecting the adjustment and operation of the controls as described in 4.2 External Transmission Adjustments.

Table b lists symptoms of automatic transmission and final drive problems, their probable causes, and recommended corrective action.

Table b. Automatic Transmission Troubleshooting