Automatic Transmission Problem Simple Service or Repair ?
Reader Question : Hello Austin,
I have a 1989 chevy celebrity with 100+k miles on it. I've owned it since 1991 & have always kept up w/regular maintenance. About a year ago, I was coming off a freeway exit ramp and the car seized, lurched, and lost power. It started up again relatively quickly and I was able to get home without problems.
I checked all the fluids, and took it to my mechanic, who couldn't find a problem. However, this situation has recurred repeatedly over the past year. I have taken it so far to 3 different shops, none of which has been able to correctly identify and fix whatever is wrong.
While the car doesn't have this problem EVERY time I drive it at highway speeds, the circumstances surrounding when it does stall are very consistent. It is always when I drive it above 55 mph, and then try to slow down to anything below 45mph.
As I slow down, the car will start to make sounds as if it is choking, then it will seize and lurch for a few seconds before finally completely losing power and stalling. Most of the time I can get it started again within a minute or so, though occasionally I will have to let it sit for 5 or 10 minutes. I've had all sorts of things checked and done to the car, but the problem doesn't seem to go away. Any thoughts?
THANKS!
N.G
Why hello there NG,
Does it feel as though the transmission is stuck in gear, and the engine dies because the transmission is still in overdrive? When you come to a stop does it feel like the car still wants to go forward, and you have to push on the brake a little harder than normal to get it to stop? When you try and restart it does it start ok, but die when you put it in gear?
If so, you probably have a transmission lock up solenoid problem. This is usually the early signs of a transmission overhaul is near. You can ask your mechanic to unplug the transmission lock up solenoids from under the hood……just takes a few seconds to do. This will not let the transmission go into lock up mode when you are on the highway. It will use more fuel, but will not die on you.
You can have the solenoids replaced, but its probably $225…..and you might be faced with a total overhaul soon and have to spend that money again to overhaul it. It might be time for a new car???
I love the 2006 Kia Rio, it’s a very cool car, cheap and very good on gas……like 35 MPG good.
You can read my review here
2006 Rio Review
Blessings,
Austin Davis
Sincerely,
Austin C Davis
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