1998 Toyota Sienna Jerks After Trans Flush

1998 TOYOTA SIENNA
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STEVEN L
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  • 2 POSTS
1998 Toyota Sienna, mileage 120,000

We recently had the transmission fluid flushed and replaced. The first time we drove it after having the work done, the van jerked as the engine shifted into gear and surged as the accelator was pushed. This happened while driving in town at speeds of 40 mph or less. Our mechanic says that nothing can be found on the computer diagnostic and that nothing visually appears wrong. He suspects that a solenoid is blocked by "trash". We had not had any previous problems with this until this maintenance work was done. Any suggestions?
May 8, 2006 at 8:01 AM
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LOSONE
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 1,616 POSTS
It isn't published but NEVER flush a tranny especially Toyota. Replace the fluid and filter. The tech is correct you have debris causing the problem.

It is a tranny shops way of getting an overhaul.

Try an 8 oz bottle of Slick 50 transmission oil additive--follow the directions and it will probably cure the tranny ills. Good luck
May 8, 2006 at 8:09 AM
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STEVEN L
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Thanks for the quick response. We passed this info on to the mechanic. Sounds like they're baffled and may try the Slick 50 if they don't find the "trash" in the solenoids. Thanks.
May 8, 2006 at 9:42 AM
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Suggested Repair

Do not flush a Toyota transmission; drain and replace the fluid and filter instead. Debris from the flush may be blocking a solenoid. Try an 8 oz bottle of Slick 50 transmission additive, following the directions.

Conversation Summary

A 1998 Toyota Sienna with 120,000 miles began jerking into gear and surging below 40 mph immediately after a transmission fluid flush. Diagnostics and a visual inspection found nothing, and the mechanic suspected debris blocking a solenoid. The expert said Toyota transmissions should not be flushed, that debris is likely the cause, and recommended replacing the fluid and filter and trying Slick 50 transmission additive. The owner passed that advice to the mechanic.

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