I only have this problem in the mornings with the engine cold. When I shift into D4, there is a long pause. Sometimes I have to shift back to Park and play with the shifter to get into D4. It's worse when I haven't driven the car for a couple of days.

Since I am in HI, 'cold' is like 60-70 F. It would be terrible in a colder climate. Once in D4, the tranny shifts fine. Also during the day while in the hot sun and the car is warmed up, no problem.

The car has 155,000 miles and otherwise, the tranny is still shifting fine.

 

WHen was the fluid last changed and what type of fluid was used?

 

I bought the car used last June, so I don't know what the previous owner did. The fluid looks reddish off the dip stick.

I am thinking what you are, that I should replace the fluid with the recommended Honda one to see if anything happens.

BTW, what is the best fluid right now? DL-1 or something? I think Honda came up with an improved fluid.

 

I think it is DW1 that replaced Z1.....OE PN 08200-9008. Many sellers online, local dealer, ect. I can say that carquest carries this for $7.99 qt....so weigh that price to the others and include shipping....also note that you can but just one qt at a time from cq vs the others where you have to buy in case lots.