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slight slipping, hasn't changed in 3 years
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thinkr
New User
Apr 29, 2008, 8:41 PM
Post #1 of 3
(1616 views)
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slight slipping, hasn't changed in 3 years
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Hello, I've been to a number of mechanics, professional outfits with various tests, and they all usually say the same thing: I need a new transmission. However, it just doesn't seem right. The car drives just fine and only slips a bit once in awhile, and has been unchanged in 3 years of driving. I generally use it for freeway driving, and have put a few thousand miles on during that time.
1999 Mazda 626 2.0L automatic
I bought the car 3 years ago, everything was fine for a few weeks. Then there were some serious electrical issues that went on for some time, then they went away when the battery cable was replaced (it was barely touching the post, and was not tight). From that point forward I have had only the following symptoms:
1) Occassional slipping of the transmission, usually at freeway speed while driving at a constant speed, lasts anywhere from 2 seconds to about a minute, then returns to normal. During these times it runs at a higher RPM, but still runs. This will happen anywhere from 0-5 times during a 100 mile stretch (usually 2 times). There are no unusual noises or lurches associated with this, just a higher RPM.
2) The check engine light comes on once in awhile. And it usually stays on for a day or two and then goes out. Then it may stay out for days or weeks before repeating. And it does not correlate with symptom #1. However, the very first time the check engine light came on there was a smell like melting wires, a puff of smoke came through my vent, just for a few seconds.
There are no other symptoms! And these symptoms are unchanged in about 3 years. This is why it doesn't make sense to me that the transmission is bad. PLUS, the shops that say I need a new transmission generally only produce one code from their diagnostics, and that is in reference to the transmission slipping.
Other than this the car is in very good condition, smooth running motor, no other mechanical problems.
Last week I finally decided to take a chance on a mechanic that determined through extensive testing that it could be fixed with 95% certainty by replacing about $350 in easy access parts and that much again in labor. However, after making the repairs there was no change in the symptoms.
They say they'll eat the $700 if I get the transmission replaced through them. However, even going that route seems odd to me. If the transmission is bad then wouldn't it have been progressing through a list of symptoms?
Ok, if replacing the transmission IS the correct thing to do, then what is the right deal? The car isn't worth more than about $4500. A used one from the junkyard? Or a refurbished? The mechanic that did the work quoted $2,800 before taxes for a refurbished. Ouch. I have the money but I'd like to know the best decision, and I hope someone can convince me that the transmission is really bad before I spend that kind of money.
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Double J
Veteran
/ Moderator
Apr 29, 2008, 9:35 PM
Post #2 of 3
(1610 views)
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Re: slight slipping, hasn't changed in 3 years
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Just wanted to give you my opinion...
I dont have a lot of Mazda experience but From what I've heard they/these DO have Transmission problems (known for it).
Seems to me if several different shops all came up with the same result,then maybe the transmission does have an internal fault.
I can see where you would question this based on the way it drives.
What code do they get?
All codes have a "flow chart"..a diagnostic procedure that runs a mechanic thru a series of tests..it has a beginning,middles,and ends.
In other words,check this,if this then check this,if that then check that..if this replace this..etc u get the point.
I have heard that these Do have transmission range sensor and vehicle speed sensor problems.
What parts did the $700.00 guy replace?
I know on some cars that they have a transmission control module (programmer) that can be reprogrammed ..guessing on this again since no Mazda knowledge,but maybe since/due to the loss of electrical power, it may need to be reprogrammed..GUESS..
IMO..I would take it to Mazda for their diagnosis/opinion before making a final decision....worth the diagnostic charges.
But do not tell the other shops what the previous shops diagnosis was..let them tell you.
Now for the transmission issue...STAY AWAY FROM USED/JUNKYARD TRANSMISSIONS,PERIOD..
You'll end up worse off...if you decide to do this,get a quality repair/rebuild or a remanufactured transmission.
Myself I prefer remanufacturered.
If you decide to have a transmission shop rebuild it,take it to a shop like AAmco,someone with a nationwide warranty...unless all you ever do is drive locally.
Is this car in decent/good shape? Mainly mechanically,is everything else in good enough shape that it makes sense to invest in the transmission?
Whats the mileage?..Just something to consider...
Just my thougths...
See what the others say
Jim
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thinkr
New User
Apr 29, 2008, 10:53 PM
Post #3 of 3
(1605 views)
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Re: slight slipping, hasn't changed in 3 years
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Ok, I don't have the code on me but I'll get it and post it. The speed sensor was the top theory and they say they tested it and that it was ok. (could it have been tested ok and yet not be?). Mechanically the car is in very good condition, smooth ride, no problems with engine, looks nice, etc. However, I don't want to keep the car, was going to trade in to get a pickup. Just thought I'd fix this "little problem" first, lol.
I'll ask them about the transmission control module, and again about the speed sensor, and possibly take it to a mazda dealer for another diagnostic.
I almost think I'd rather sell it cheap as a fixer upper to some mechanic, not sure what I'd get though. I definitely don't like the idea of putting money into something I don't want to keep.
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