I've got a 2003 Accord 4cyl and when the car is cold it doesn't seem like its downshifting into first gear when accelerating from a stop. The rpm's go up but the car seems like its trying to accelerate in 2nd gear from a standstill. I've been to a few shops and they have said the trans is good and they were not able to replicate the issue. Anyone have any ideas?

 

If this is principally happening when cold, I would try a drain and fill with Honda DW-1 ATF. It is synthetic and has better low temperature performance than the previous Honda Z1 ATF.

 

its usually when cold, but it has happened once during regular driving. Someone mentioned the shift or transmission controller/module.

 

change the fluid and put a new filter on it, pt #25430-PLR-003, 3 qts for drain and fill, about 50 bucks for everything from the dealer. if it fixes the issue, your golden, if not you need to start looking further...

 

Sounds like you could have a sticking valve pin in the transmission. 03 transmissions were supposedly improved over the 6th gen's but they still had problems of their own.
They are very susceptible to overheating conditions, and will burn out the torque converter. when honda rebuilds these transmissions they install a "jet lube" pack which attempts to delay failure (until the warranty expires). It is not a 100% fix. I would add a transmission cooler STAT
Check your fluid level and replace if it is brown or smells burnt.

 

The oil jet kit (aka ATF lube pipe), Honda P/N 06250-RDG-315, was designed for the 7th generation Accord V6 transmission, not the 4 cylinder. It was part of a recall on certain 2003 & 2004 Accord V6. It was available as a service item for later 7th generation Accord V6. It is installed where the oil filler bolt is on the V6 auto transmission. The 4 cylinder auto transmission didn't have such an oil filler bolt; so, it the kit was not applicable to 4 cylinders.


Background:
Certain operating conditions can result in heat buildup
between the countershaft and secondary shaft 2nd
gears in the A/T. Without enough oil flow to dissipate
heat, prolonged operation under these conditions can
eventually result in decreased material strength. In
higher mileage vehicles, this can result in gear tooth
chipping or, in very rare cases, gear breakage.
In most cases, A/T noise will indicate a problem,
however it is possible for the A/T to become locked
without warning. A locked A/T could result in a crash.

Honda TSB 04-037

This is for informational purposes only.

 

I did not know that, Thanks for the info Redbull as always I appreciate the knowledge.

 

We appreciate you helping members. More info. is always better to try to help members resolve their concerns.