Hi everyone,
I just bought a 2015 toyota camry with 30,000 miles (automatic transmission) on it and i'm facing a weird issue with its transmission. When doing a cold start the car's reverse and drive are very heavy. Once revved up to 4,000 or 5,000 rpms it drives normally. I should also note, this does not happen when the engine is warm/hot.
can you please elaborate on "heavy"
Sorry for the poor wording. When i step on the gas, the RPMS go up to 4 to 5k and the car moves very slowly, inches forward. At that point, I would have to put the car back in park and reve it a few times, then it works fine. Thank you for your help.
what do you mean by heavy? will it not go into gear? or will it feel like it doesn't want to roll forward or backward?
Sorry for the poor wording. When i step on the gas, the RPMS go up to 4 to 5k and the car moves very slowly, inches forward. At that point, I would have to put the car back in park and reve it a few times, then it works fine. Thank you for your help.
Ok, that is odd for sure. I have a 15 camry with 60k and have not had that issue. if it did that constantly I would say the trans is slipping but if it stops doing it then Im not sure. have you checked the fluid? it is kind of complicated to do:
the transmission fluid temp has to be between 95-113 degrees, (checked with a laser thermometer) then open the drain plug in the trans pan and allow fluid to drip out until it slows to a dribble, then replace the plug. that indicates the level is adequate. if no fluid comes out at all, then it is low and needs to be filled.
I'd start with that and see if the level is good, if not then add only Toyota brand WS fluid. I've only found it on amazon.
other than that, is the check engine light on and/or are there any codes?
Thank you for the clarification. Many people refer to this as "slip" because the transmission is not engaging the wheels (output) to the engine (input). This can happen over a long time with age and wear, but this is not normal for a vehicle with 30k miles, as I'm sure you're aware.
Basic stuff first. Have you checked the AT fluid? Does it look clean and is there enough?
Thank you for your response. Not yet, but I will get that checked for sure. Out of curiosity, what else could the issue be so I'm prepared? Thank you so much.
after that, your choices dwindle I'm afraid. At that point you need to start to look for professional help. If you have any kind of powertrain warranty remaining, definitely utilize that. If you're up to it, you can try doing an AT filter change. At the very least, it will provide more information. Other than that, I think you should take it to Toyota or a transmission specialist.