Transmission shift on cold days

BARNETR

MEMBER
HONDA CIVIC

I have a 1990 Honda Civic EX model at 140,000 miles with the automatic transmission. When it is cold outside, usually below 50 degrees the transmission takes time to shift into high gear. Once the transmission is hot, shifting is not a problem. During summer months this is not an issue. I have changed the transmission oil with Honda's transmission fluid, as instructed by Honda technicians, but the problem persists. I drive on the highway everyday to and from work and most times it takes about 1 to 2 miles before the transmission is hot enough to shift into high gear. Shifting into other gears is not a problem, cold or hot. What do you think could be the problem?

1 Reply

BRUCE HUNT

MECHANIC
3,754 POSTS

I am not a tranny expert, but this really sounds like a tranny issue where it is sticking a bit. When she gets warm the fluid is able to loosen it and allow it to shift. I am wondering if a new change with a flush would do the job. Another thought is to talk to a mechanic from Honda and ask if they have an additive to help with the problem. Another possibility is to install a wrap around tank heater to keep the fluid warm by plugging it in. Not a good one but one.