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Dissonance
Novice
Nov 11, 2011, 7:33 PM
Post #1 of 10
(2000 views)
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2005
Pontiac
Vibe
1.8 L
80k
Hello! On my way home today, the automatic shifting starting feeling less smooth--a little bumpy. Then, the check engine light went on. It sounds like the transaxle fluid is low. I pulled over, but it was too dark to check the level, so I rode the bus home. I'll get a ride and check it in the morning.
Could it be anything else other than the transaxle fluid?
Thanks,
D
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Hammer Time
Ultimate Carjunky
/ Moderator
Nov 11, 2011, 7:34 PM
Post #2 of 10
(1997 views)
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Re: Transaxle fluid
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Get the codes read before you conclude anything.
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We offer help in answering questions, clarifying things or giving advice but we are not a substitute for an on-site inspection by a professional.
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Hammer Time
Ultimate Carjunky
/ Moderator
Nov 12, 2011, 3:57 AM
Post #4 of 10
(1961 views)
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Re: Transaxle fluid
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The "check engine" light is an indicator for a system that monitors many electronic functions in the system, also called the "malfunction indicator lamp" (MIL). It can come on for any of hundreds of different causes from any of the systems that the computer monitors. Some are very important and can lead to further component or engine damage and some are emissions related not as serious but still a problem and need to be repaired.
Your first step is to have the computer scanned to retrieve the trouble codes that were set when the check engine light came on. Those codes will give you specific information about what the computer saw and will get you pointed in the right direction to find your problem. With a 1996 or newer and some 95 cars and you have an AutoZone or Advanced auto parts in your area, they will read them for free. Once you have these code numbers, we can be a lot more specific about what your problem may be.
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We offer help in answering questions, clarifying things or giving advice but we are not a substitute for an on-site inspection by a professional.
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Dissonance
Novice
Nov 12, 2011, 1:43 PM
Post #5 of 10
(1952 views)
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Re: Transaxle fluid
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Thank you for the information.
The transaxle fluid was low, so I filled it to the proper level according to the directions in the owner's manual. The codes said there's a problem with the pressure control solenoid, which I think is related to the transmission, so the low fluid probably set it off. After clearing the codes, the check engine light went on again after a few minutes. I made an appointment with my mechanic for Monday. Will it be harmful if I do a small bit of driving this weekend?
Thanks,
D
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Hammer Time
Ultimate Carjunky
/ Moderator
Nov 12, 2011, 1:45 PM
Post #6 of 10
(1949 views)
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Re: Transaxle fluid
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Yes, it may be harmful to drive it. Get it checked first so you don't do any further damage.
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We offer help in answering questions, clarifying things or giving advice but we are not a substitute for an on-site inspection by a professional.
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Dissonance
Novice
Nov 12, 2011, 1:46 PM
Post #7 of 10
(1944 views)
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Re: Transaxle fluid
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Ok, I'll keep it parked until I take it to my mechanic on Monday. Thanks!
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Dissonance
Novice
Nov 12, 2011, 3:28 PM
Post #8 of 10
(1933 views)
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Re: Transaxle fluid
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I did some research regarding the problem. That particular error code comes up often on the Vibe. I think my Vibe at 6 years 92k miles is out of warranty. If the pressure control solenoid is bad, it's a big deal because it's inside the transmission. People say it cost them $500-$996. The powertrain control module can also be the cause for this error. It's behind the glove compartment. The PCM was recalled on my car, so I made an appointment to have the GM dealer look at it. Fortunately, my car is still shifting smoothly.
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Richard c
User
Nov 15, 2011, 3:14 PM
Post #9 of 10
(1907 views)
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Re: Transaxle fluid
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Did it drive better after you filled to the proper level?
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Dissonance
Novice
Nov 15, 2011, 3:20 PM
Post #10 of 10
(1905 views)
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Re: Transaxle fluid
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I initially thought it drove better when I filled the transaxle to the propper level, but that was because the car was still a little cold.
Yesterday, GM replaced the powertrain control module on recall, and the car now shifts perfectly.
Thanks,
D
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