2005 Scion tC Driven in 3rd Gear

TOYOTA
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STERLING0909
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  • 1 POST
I am writing this question in profound embarrassment realizing that this could go down as the most stupid auto thing I have done in my life. I am not a car person but that is really not an excuse. I purchased a new Scion TC in 2005. I had been driving an older car so the new automatic shifting module was a nice change. Not used to the new shifter, I now realized I was confused with the layout and operation of it. Alright, here goes - I have been operating the auto, positioning the shifter in 3rd rather than Drive - which are on the same line with theleft position 3rd and the right position, drive. So that means driving in 3 all the time, city and highway driving. The rpms would be between 3500-4000 on hwy. Functioning properly in drive they are now around 2500. I have 37000 miles on the car from the past two and half years.

It has made me sick inside with this realization.

Could someone please advise me on what this would do to the car mechanically and what I should do?Amazingly the car has functioned perfectly, no sounds or issues with the transmission/engine.

Please help a very embarrassed driver.

Thank you,

Sterling0909
Mar 3, 2007 at 3:06 AM
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LOSONE
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  • 1,616 POSTS
If everything works right, you have no problems to worry about.

I would service the tranny to be sure as it might have gotten a little warm. Sincerely, I don't think you have done any damage.

Don't tell the dealership as they might ask why you want it serviced so soon.

Let me know losone
Mar 3, 2007 at 3:14 AM

Suggested Repair

If the transmission still operates normally, no damage is expected. Service the transmission as a precaution because it may have run warmer than usual.

Conversation Summary

The owner of a 2005 Scion tC realized they had driven about 37,000 miles with the shifter in 3rd rather than Drive, causing higher highway RPM. The car showed no noises or other problems. The expert said normal operation indicates no damage but recommended servicing the transmission because it may have gotten warm.

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