1996 Toyota 4runner Limited 4wd 208k miles automatic transmission
The transmission in my 4runner shifts smooth 1st to 3rd gear. After third gear it will not shift into 4th gear the top gear of the transmission. No matter what it won’t shift to 4th. No CEL. ATF fluid isn’t in the best shape it’s the color of motor oil that’s due for a change but with the miles on the 4runner I’m nervous to change the fluid because I’m not sure how long the ATF has been in the transmission. Any idea what could cause it to not shift to the top gear ? Thanks
Why would you not change the atf fluid? As you said it's due for a change, is it cause you scared of atf fluid or something? O.o Is the overdrive in all the time? Try turning O/D on and off, see if that works, O/D solenoid might be toast, other problems could be throttle position sensor, shift solenoids, or even it just a bad ground somewhere.
Scared of the fluid ? No but if the fluid has never been changed and I drain it there’s a chance of doing more harm than good and I’ve pushed the OD button countless times no luck
Ahh never been changed, gotcha. You can try testing the solenoids, O/D or shift ones or Throttle position sensor, but if all of em work then it's pretty much it for the tranny
yeah i changed the TPS yesterday with high hopes but no luck there. probably will test the solenoids and then after that if it’s bad news look into changing the whole transmission out
Good luck dude!
Check the ATF condition.
It the ATF color is dirty, do not change it. You at ruin the transmission. If the overdrive light is off, odds are that you have internal transmission wear (either the 4th gear or solenoids). Anyway, you better off putting a transmission from a junkyard.
would you suggest trying to put in new solenoids or just getting a new transmission ?
First check with a professional mechanic to test the transmission and get the data. Then decide what to do.