I have the 2004 Accord EX/LX (not sure) with the 2.4L 4-cyl, automatic.

Not sure if it's normal, but I feel it engine brake harder than I would think it should when coasting to a stop or lightly braking around the 15-20mph, and I'm nervous that it might be an indicator of an impending issue with the transmission or torque converter.

Can anyone who's experienced a gradual degradation of the transmission help alleviate my worries with advice on what clues the transmission will give before it actually starts giving out? I've only had the car for about 2 years and I'm not sure if it's always been this way and I'm getting worked up over nothing.

 

Is the transmission shifting at the right time? Are any gears slipping where you lose power to the wheels?

When was the last time you changed the transmission fluid?

Is the check engine light on or is the D4 light flashing?

 

So far as i know, no gears are slipping, it just feels kinda heavy sometimes. No lights on, and I haven't changed the trans fluid myself yet, I've heard in some older cars that can actually make some problems come out.

 

The transmission functions by hydraulic pressure. My opinion is to change the fluid, because if the transmission internals are worn enough to depend on the fluid for friction, then the transmission is already on its last leg. It would be a matter of time before needing to replace the transmission.