Won't Shift into Gear when Cold

MIKEL

MEMBER
1991 PONTIAC 6000
6 CYL
FWD
AUTOMATIC
144,000 MILES

Hello again!

Before I start, I want to say what a terrific service you folks offer. This is the THIRD vehicle I've come to you folks with questions about, and I'm glad to know you're here.

I've currently got a guy offering me a 1991 Pontiac 6000-SE with 144K miles on it. Power everything, 3.1L V6. I'm sort of excited, and also kind of amused because this would be the FIFTH GM A-Body in my family (Another 6000, a Celebrity, and two Centuries have come before.).

The only thing is, the driver says that first thing in the morning you've got to warm the engine up a little, or it won't shift into reverse. It'll just sit there. Any idea what I might be buying into?

Thanks for the help!

1 Reply

SQM

MECHANIC
6,383 POSTS

Hello,

Anytime there is a shifting issue first thing needs to be checked is the transmission fluid level and condition.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/automatic-transmission-problems

As low fluid can impact on how the gear engages. Also contaminated fluid can prevent from shifting.
It is possible as the components warms up (as everything expands with heat), there is better fluid pressure which allow the transmission to into the desired gear.

So, this issue could be simple as a fluid issue and just need transmission drain and fill along with filter change.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-service-an-automatic-transmission

It can also be due to internal malfunction like a solenoid or bad pump.

Please let me know if you have any questions.
Thank you.

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