2001 Honda Accord EX with 4-banger and Automatic Transmission (214,000 miles on first transmission)

About a month ago, i left my driveway and the transmission would not shift out of 1st gear (Code P0780). After researching this forum, I decided to remove the above solenoid and found the shift solenoid filter was clogged. After I cleaned and reinstalled, I have had not problems with the transmission until I was coming home from work last night.

After I got off the interstate, the car would hard downshift when stopped (behind a school bus, that was extremely annoying for 2 miles and 12 stops). It would shift but would also go in and out of lock-up. I again removed the above solenoids and discovered that both soleniod filters were clogged.

Questions:
1. What does this mean for my transmission? I can't keep on removing and cleaning.

2. Will installing a transmission filter on the return line from the ATF Cooler effect the operation of the transmission? This would only work if the return line from the cooler goes to the ATF pump sump.

3. What in the heck is this stuff, its not metal and look fibrous?

Thanks,
James

 

1. I hope you know the auto trans in these had issues. Cut the fluid changes in half, I'd do it every 15K and use Honda trans fluid

2. It can only help

3. Clutch plate wear.

PS- thanks for joining HAF

 

Thanks for the response. I was hoping there was some trick I haven't thought of, unfortunately you have confirmed my fears.