Mechanic said fluid smelled burnt, and metal in the fluids. Says I'm in the beginning stages of transmission failing - but that I shouldn't go on the highway.

This sucks. I bought the car with 42k miles - and put 40 on it - and I'm gonna have to replace trans and soon - a Timing belt.

Kindof breaks the Honda Accord Image I've had as a long lasting - low maintenance vehicle. This is my 3rd Accord. All the rest were good experiences - but I only put a ton of miles on the first one - which was a Manual Trans '96 Accord - all original miles.

 

A year and model would help, but i'm guessing its a 98-01, they had catastrophic automatic transmission failures.

 

2000 Accord EX, Auto Trans

I'm going to see the Trans shop tomorrow to learn what kindof damage I'm looking at.

 

Update -

* I got a price locked down from AAMCO for 2,700 bucks 36 mo / 36k warranty ( Anytime withing warranty period can get $500 extra for lifetime )

* $2,100-$2,800 for the guy I was referred to by my mechanic at 12 mo/ 24k warranty

* 3rd local guy who does work for Honda Dealerships / Car Max - under $1,600 - $2,000 --- 12 /12 warranty --- $200. for 24mo /24k --- $ 400 extra for 3mo 36k warranty

Talking to them on the phone - sounds like they all use the same parts and pretty much do the same thing. The guy I was referred to said they replace the electronics on all trans rebuilds - but AAMCO - said replace what's worn - with a better warranty.

Any suggestion as to who to choose and why ? or what questions I could ask to discern between one or the other.? I'm hoping to get this work done next week if all goes well.

Thanks

 

My bad news turned out to be not so bad afterall

I ended up getting everything fixed for 600 bucks

* New O2 Sensor
* Replaced 3rd Clutch pressure switch
* Drained and refilled complete system with New Honda fluid

Put about 50 miles on the car today - and the light hasn't come back on. Shifting much smoother.

The guy at the shop I ended up getting the work done - described the symptom as " flare shifting "

I don't know that a Transmission rebuild won't be in my future - but right now - it doesn't look like I have to shell out 2500 for a new Tranny. Looks like it never hurts to get a second opinion - and find a guy with integrity to do your work.

I'll give it a week of driving til I give it a final verdict - but I'm keeping my fingers crossed that my problem is solved.

 

And keep it in fresh Honda fluid. It was good that your guy didn't want to put some Dexron fluid in there.

Look at the owner's manual for a good laugh. It probably says the tranny fluid is supposed to last forever, or maybe 100k miles or something like that. Don't let it go that long.