96 Honda Accord 2.2 4cyl 146K miles -- the automatic trans shifts through first and second gears correctly, intermittently shifts to third, then will suddenly downshift, before it gets to operating temp the car will go through all the gears correctly. checked transmission fluid and it is to the level, doesnt have burnt smell and is not dark, not sure where to start looking. Appreciate any advice/help.

 

Does your "d4" light flash?

 

no it hasnt flashed.

 

It SOUNDs to me your shift and tq. solenoids are getting a little dirty. You can try cleaning them. But if you have the cash I would grab about 8qt. of HONDA ATF and do a drain and fill and drive on the new fluid for 50milles or so then do it again. Some times that will clean them w/o having to unbolt them from the tranny.

Let someone else chime in tho be4 doing that.

 

thanks for the quick responce!! What is the recomeneded cleaner for solenoids? i will wait to see if anyone chimes in.

 

Iv always used carb or break cleaner. There might be something better but that’s what Iv always use cus it's cheap or I get it free since some of my friends work at shops they have like a half can laying around and just give it away....lol

 

Finally checked the solenoids and they were completely clogged, drove the car for about 15 min (smiling, though i had fixed it) and it started again. Took it to the dealer and was told i had a P0715 code and the trans fluid didnt smell burnt but did have a funny smell, they suggested to change fluid and mainshaft shift solenoid but it could still be a transmission problem. So with that i took it to a transmission shop they drove it and told me it would need to be rebuilt for 2100 (never check codes). long story short i want to get your opinions on which route should i take/ or you would take??