Transmission is slipping on 2-3 shift and the transmission fluid looks all black

[Hans Moleman]

I only have 48k miles and the transmission was slipping on the 2-3 up shift. I checked the fluid level and it looked normal. I figured it couldn't hurt to try changing the trans fluid to see if it helps. When I drained the fluid, it looked black, almost like used motor oil. After I refilled with new WS fluid, the transmission is shifting normally again.

This so called "lifetime" WS ATF is BS. If I would have known this, I would have changed my trans fluid at 30k miles like I have been doing with other cars. Although it is shifting normally again, I may have screwed it up a little waiting to change it until it began to slip.

I think I may do another drain and refill to get more of the old fluid out. I don't want to do the flushing since I heard bad things about it.

[sooperedd]

The black stuff could be clutch material. Clutch material floating around will make it slip. Flushing the tranny helps but it won't be long until you're looking at a tranny rebuild.

Way too soon with only 48k on it unless you've done a lot of towing. Heat is murder on a tranny.

My 2006 just turned over 50k and the tranny fluid is just slightly discolored with no burn smell to it. Gonna do a flush at 60k.

[RF Overlord]

Originally Posted by Hans Moleman

When I drained the fluid, it looked black, almost like used motor oil.

Sounds like the fluid is oxidized. Do you tow with it or drive in very hilly areas?

Originally Posted by Hans Moleman

I think I may do another drain and refill to get more of the old fluid out.

Yes you should, and possibly more than one. There's no need to drive very far in between...around the block will do it.

I'm a firm believer in using OEM fluids, not "one-size-fits-all" universal fluids, but others have apparently had good luck, so take your pick. Clean fresh fluid is the key to transmission longevity.

[friendly_jacek]

Is this I4 or V6? 2007?

[Hans Moleman]

Originally Posted by RF Overlord

Sounds like the fluid is oxidized. Do you tow with it or drive in very hilly areas?

Yes you should, and possibly more than one. There's no need to drive very far in between...around the block will do it.

I'm a firm believer in using OEM fluids, not "one-size-fits-all" universal fluids, but others have apparently had good luck, so take your pick. Clean fresh fluid is the key to transmission longevity.

No not really, but I do drive it hard.

Actually fluid does not smell burnt. It is just really dark.

[Hans Moleman]

Originally Posted by friendly_jacek

Is this I4 or V6? 2007?

The I4

[Hans Moleman]

I drained and refilled again today. I hope it's not too late for my transmission. I'm going to do drain and refills every 15k miles from now on. It is just as easy as changing the oil.