Automatic Transmission (AT) Malfunctions (Opel Vectra C)

Note: Due to the complexity of the AT design, it is advisable to carry out diagnostics of its faults and repair of components in a car service workshop.

Common problems associated with the operation of the switching mechanism

1. The following can be attributed to failures associated with a malfunction of the shift rod adjustment:

• The engine can be started in transmission positions other than "P" and "N";
• The transmission position indicator reading differs from the actual gear selected;
• The vehicle is moving with the transmission in position "P" or "N";
• Gears shift with difficulty or randomly.

2. Adjust the gear shift rod.

The transmission slips, shifts with difficulty, makes extraneous noises, or does not allow the vehicle to move when shifted into one of the gears

1. There are many possible causes for the problems listed in the title, but only one of them falls within the competence of the amateur mechanic - incorrect transmission fluid (ATF) level.

2. Before taking your car to a car service workshop, check the level and condition of the ATF (see Chapter 7). Correct the ATF level or change it.

There are transmission fluid (ATF) leaks

1. ATF is dark red in color. Its leaks should not be confused with engine oil, which can be carried to the transmission housing by the oncoming air flow.



2. To identify and locate the source of the leak, first remove all traces of dirt and grease from the transmission housing. Use a suitable degreaser and/or steam clean. Then drive the vehicle for a short time at low speed (so that traces of a leak are not carried away by the oncoming flow far from its source). Stop, jack up the car and visually inspect to determine the source of the leak. Most often, these are:

• Transmission oil pan - tighten mounting bolts and/or replace oil pan gasket;
• ATF filler tube - replace the rubber seal where the tube enters the transmission housing;
• ATF lines - tighten fittings or replace lines;
• Vent tube - transmission is full and/or water has entered it.

ATF is brown in color or smells burnt

1. ATF level is insufficient.

Kickdown mode does not turn on when the pedal is fully pressed (the downshift does not engage)

1. The ATF level has dropped.

2. The engine management system is faulty.

3. The sensor switch or its wiring is faulty.

4. The selector drive cable is out of adjustment.

The engine does not start in any selector position or starts in positions other than "P" and "R"

1. The adjustment of the start enable switch sensor is disturbed.

2. The engine control system is not functioning properly.

3. The selector cable adjustment is incorrect.

Transmission slips, jerks or makes noise when shifting gears. Car does not move when in "D" or "R" mode

1. The ATF level has dropped.

2. The sensor or its wiring is faulty.

3. The engine control system is not functioning properly.