Will I need a rebuild or new transmission?

[grandprix85]

I have a 2002 Grand Prix GT with 94,000 miles. I had my transmission fluid and filter changed (pan drop) at a tranny shop in August 09. I had got a oil change in November and they said my transmission fluid was low so they filled it up. My car shifted hard about 3 or 4 times between August and the oil change but I didnt think my tranny fluid was low since I just had my fluid change. So my car shifted hard about once a month between the tranny fluid change and the oil change. Since the oil change people filled my tranny fluid it has been shifting hard about once a week. Ive checked the transmission fluid and its right at the line on the dip stick, so the fluid is not low right now. Will the low tranny fluid for about 3 months damage my tranny?

 

[cerick08GP]

Well, if I were in your shoes I would just ride it out for now. And see how the transmission acts. If it continues to shift hard, I would use some SeaFoam tranny additive and go from there.

This is just FYI. The #1 problem I see written about concerning tranny fluid changes is if the shop screws up anything it will most likely be a low fill. I think maybe the Trannyman explained this before; it has something to do with noobs running the fluid change out machine incorrectly. So for everyone I highly suggest always checking the tranny fluid level yourself after any work. I would do it right at the shop before driving it anywhere.:th_winking:

 

[grandprix85]

have u seen or heard any transmissions being damaged because of low fluid for a few months?

 

[matt5112]

Yeah, without enough fluid, it'd shift VERY harsh and perhaps lock up.

Think of it like running an engine low on oil.

 

[grandprix85]

The transmission only shifts hard about once a week then the other 5 or 6 days it shifts fine. If I've been driving for about 20 or 30 mins it'll start shifting hard for just that 1 day a week. Then if I turn off the car for about 30 mins and start it up again then it shifts fine.

 

[Zef_66]

I would try disconnecting the battery for a few hours and drive the car very easy afterwards. This will let the transmission relearn all the parameters. Not sure if this will help or not, but it can't hurt to try.

And as long as the tranny is shifting and still running, just drive it.

 

[BillBoost37]

When a transmission is low on fluid, it doesn't work. Fluid is what makes a transmission apply the clutches etc. Wtihout enough you won't move. The trans shouldn't lock up... you should simply notice slipping.

Since you don't mention any slipping, my question is... how low was the fluid? Oil change people will tell you anything they can to sell you a friggin air filter. I trust them less than someone I know to be shady.

Harsh shifting in these transmissions is commonly caused by a failing EPC soleniod. Aka the pressure solenoid. Most likely you've been experiencing it getting fickle and now it is happening more frequently.