Note: Due to the complexity of the automatic transmission, it is very difficult to properly diagnose and troubleshoot this unit yourself. For problems not described below, contact your dealer service department or an automatic transmission specialist. Do not remove the transmission from the vehicle, as most tests are performed with the unit installed.
Liquid leak
Transmission fluid is usually dark red in color. Do not mistake engine oil for fluid leaks, as drops of oil may fall onto the transmission.
To locate the source of the leak, first remove all dirt from the transmission housing and the area around them using a special compound or steam. Take a short drive at low speed so that the leak traces are not blown away by the air flow far from the source. Jack up the car and locate the leak. Common leak locations are:
- a) Transmission pan (Section 1 or Section 7B)
- b) Level measuring pipe (Section 1 or Section 7B)
- c) Pipes connecting the transmission to the fluid cooling pipes (Section 7)
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Transmission fluid is brown or smells burnt
- The transmission fluid level is low or needs to be replaced (Section 1)
Common Gear Selection Problems
The most likely cause of shifting problems is poor clutch cable adjustment. Below are common problems that can be caused by an improperly adjusted cable:
- a) The engine starts in positions other than Park and Neutral.
- b) The indicator panel or lever does not correctly show the selected gear.
- c) The vehicle can be moved in Park or Neutral positions.
- d) Erratic gear shifting.
For cable adjustment procedure, see Section 7B.
Transmission does not downshift (kickdown) when accelerator pedal is fully depressed
- Low transmission fluid level (Section 1)
- Incorrect adjustment of the gear shift cable (Section 7B)
Engine does not start in any gear or does not start in Park or Neutral
- The starter interlock is faulty (Section 7B)
- Incorrect adjustment of the gear shift cable (Section 7B)
The transmission slips, shifts jerkily, makes noise, or does not transmit rotation when engaging forward or reverse gears
- There are many possible causes for the problems listed above, but you can only fix low fluid levels yourself. Check the fluid level and condition as described in Section 1. Add fluid or replace fluid and filter if necessary. If transmission operation does not improve after this, contact a specialist.
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