Thread: Transmission slips during left turns

Hey all -

I have a 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix GT with 191K miles that has the 4T65E trans.

So, unfortunately the trans failed on me two weeks ago I decided to have the work done to the tune of $1300. It was a used trans with just over 100K miles on it. Probably wasn't the best option given the current mileage on the vehicle, but I just need it to last until I am done with college. Pre swap, the transmission slipped when coming out of reverse into drive, and sometimes coming off of stop lights. Knew it was only a matter of time before it failed completely, and one day when the car entered limp mode, I knew it was saying its goodbyes.

The used trans has been excellent. After having this replacement trans put in, I can say with little doubt, I don't think the car had a good trans in it prior to that. It feels and handles like a different car. Transitions are smooth and there is no slipping or late shifts. HOWEVER, a problem has just developed that did not exist right after I got it back. The issue is that when I make sharp left turns (such as getting onto on ramps), and try to accelerate, the trans will slip and the car will just rev until the turn has been completed.

I'm taking a shot in the dark here, but is it possible that the filter fell out, and now as a result the G forces of the turn pull the transmission fluid away from the up take? Fluid levels are good, and issue did not exist prior to the swap. Is this likely the issue?



Trans has a 90 day warranty on it, so I am definitely taking the car back in, but I am just curious if anyone else has had this issue.


Thanks!

I did check the level on level flat ground. I checked the level running, hot, and in neutral very frustrating. Would filling it beyond full cause issues/frothy trans fluid? I am taking the car in today and hopefully it's a simple correction.

Originally Posted by Scottydoggs

best to take it back and get it looked at, sooner than later.

i just got a rebuilt tranny shipped to me a few months back did the swap myself for a 100 more then you just paid. i did the used tranny deal once already, it only lasted 25,000 miles, or 5 years if you put low miles on like i do.

Just took it in about a half an hour ago, waiting to hear back now. That sucks that you only got another 25K out of it...I used to think that the 4T65E was bulletproof, now, I'm not so sure. I've been plagued with only minor issues since I bought the car (bearings, and a section of pipe on the water pump that wore out) I don't expect a used trans to be perfect, but it definitely shouldn't be slipping like this.

Originally Posted by Scottydoggs

bullet proof???? far from it, more like glass lol

Haha, seemingly so. Guess that only applies to the 3800 itself that is as strong as ever.

Originally Posted by Scottydoggs

pretty sad when a gm top 10 best ever list engine is mated to a pos tranny.

Haha, right?!? Just how HD is the 4T65E-HD? Those are in the GTP, correct?

Well, I can breathe easy for now. Just got a call from the shop, the filter was loose. I don't know if I should be happy that it wasn't something major, or mad that they couldn't make sure that the filter of all things was secured.

I'll have to get a good look at how those filters click in place the next time I drop the pan to change the fluid. I've yet to do my own transmission fluid change, but next time I would like to just so I know how.

I've also thought about putting in a shift kit (install sounds very easy) to help with the life of this transmission. Hear anything good or bad about the kits?

Originally Posted by Bronco Boy

I'd be happy that was the problem. Could have been SO much worse.

This is true haha, could have completely failed been there, done that

Originally Posted by Scottydoggs

should of had the shop install it when they did the service to the used tranny during its install. they are 40 or less on ebay for a transgo kit.

they make the tranny much tighter feeling, faster shifting. aka better.

Wasn't until after the tranny was in until I looked into the kit. I'm about 110% sure I want to order it though. Sounds like it would reduce a ton of shift friction and improve shifts dramatically. Definitely on the to do list.

The 2-3 3-4 install sounds easy, but the 1-2 sounds like it requires a little more work. Either of you know about how long it takes to do the FULL install?