Recently, I started noticing some issues with the transmission in my Honda Accord. It began with a slight hesitation during gear shifts, which gradually worsened over time. Concerned about potential safety and reliability issues, I decided to investigate the common causes of transmission problems in Honda Accords and how to address them.
Transmission problems in Honda Accords are often related to issues with the automatic transmission fluid (ATF). Inadequate or contaminated ATF can lead to shifting difficulties and other transmission-related problems. To address this, regularly check the ATF level and its condition. If the fluid is low, refill it to the appropriate level. If it appears dirty or has a burnt smell, it’s time to change the fluid. Maintaining clean and sufficient transmission fluid is key to ensuring smooth transmission functionality.
Worn-out transmission components, like the torque converter or solenoids, can cause problems. These components are vital for smooth transmission operation. Replacing them can be complex and might require professional assistance. A thorough diagnostic by a qualified mechanic can determine if these components are the cause of the transmission issues, and replacing them can restore proper function to your Honda Accord’s transmission.
It is not uncommon for the Honda Accord to have transmission issues. In this article, we will discuss many of the transmission problems you may be having while helping to find the correct solutions.
Honda Accord Transmission Problems
Honda Accords built between 1998 and 2004 have been reported to have many problems with their transmissions. As a result, Honda has had mass vehicle recalls due to transmission problems.
These issues are often noticed way before the vehicle’s odometers reach 100,000 miles. Honda was also forced to extend the transmission warranty in 2002 because of these transmission issue complaints from consumers.
Transmission problems Accord owners were having included:
- Unpredictable Shifting
- Sudden downshifting at higher speeds.
- Transmission slipping
- Transmission Failure
There are times when your transmission fails, causing a loss of control. This can be frightening and dangerous. In this article, we will discuss the issues most common to Honda Accord Transmissions and what you may be able to do to fix the problem.
Honda Accord Transmission Failure Symptoms
The symptoms of a failing transmission are not difficult to miss. If you begin to notice any of these symptoms, your Accord transmission may be failing:
- Transmission fluid loss and leaks.
- Smelling something hot and burnt.
- Noticed shifting issues while driving, or while manually putting the vehicle in gear.
- Strange noises while the car is in motion or when you are putting it in gear.
- Check Engine Light comes on
If you notice you need to replace fluid often, or you see fluid where you’ve been parked, you should have your transmission checked for leaks. Smelling something burning could mean that your transmission fluid is leaking.
It could also be the torque converter, in automatics, is going out and burning up the fluid. The loss of transmission fluid will often trigger the check engine light to come on. So, do not ignore the light. The quicker you diagnose the problem, the more likely you will be able to fix it.
You will also notice that your car may not shift smoothly, or the rpm’s of the engine rev too high while the car attempts to engage in a higher gear. Clunks and whirring sounds may also be quite noticeable.
Trouble Shooting the Honda Accord Transmission Problems
Before we go into specifically noticed problems, you should take some steps to ensure the problem is truly the transmission. Modern cars have an array of sensors that are connected to a computer brain.
Sometimes, it can be a malfunction in one of these sensors that causes your vehicle to act as though the transmission is failing or going out. Transmission problems may be noticed when there is an issue with:
- Oxygen Sensor
- Mass Airflow Sensor
- Fuel Injectors
- Clogged Catalytic Converter
These issues can cause incorrect readings to be sent to the brain of the car. This misinformation could affect the transmission module. Jeff Engstrom says, “Check any of the above before you start tinkering with the transmission, use a reliable code reader, also known as an OBDII.”
Step 1: Check your transmission fluid levels
Step 2: Use an OBDII
Step 3: Research any codes and symptoms online
Write down any codes that the reader has picked up. Then research those codes plus the symptoms you are noticing. The code of P0700 signifies there is trouble with the transmission. Other codes will follow to help pinpoint what the trouble is.
Honda Accord 4 Cylinder and V6 Transmission Problems
Common transmission problems with the 4 cylinder and v6 Honda Accord include hard shifting when the car has not been allowed to warm up. Many people suggest maintaining the transmission by flushing the transmission and replacing it with honda transmission fluid.
There are many 4 cylinder and V6 accord owners who have had to replace their transmissions numerous times throughout ownership years. It is common for a defective torque converter to be the issue.
When the torque converter goes out, it damages the entire transmission. The only way to fix the transmission is to rebuild it, which costs nearly $2500 with parts and labor. The other choice is to replace the transmission with a new one. New Transmissions
Can cost more than $3,000 dollars.
Again, remember to use your diagnostics tool and check the codes thrown. Let’s take a more in-depth look at symptoms you might be experiencing with your Accord and talk about possible ways of fixing those issues.
Honda Accord Transmission Jerks
Make sure it is your transmission. Other issues can cause your car to jerk. Make note of when you experience the jerking.
If your car is jerking when shifting it could be due to inexperience if it is a manual transmission. This could also be caused by the clutch going out. It could also be caused by low transmission fluid, or the transmission control solenoid may need to be replaced.
You may also need to give your car a tune-up:
- Check the spark plugs and wires, adjust, clean them, or replace them.
- Check your filters and replace any that are needed.
- Check the sensors
These things can make it seem as though your transmission is jerking when it is really due to the engine needing service. Sensors that are faulty or making a bad connection can also cause the car to have sudden and violent jerks. Use the OBD II diagnostic tool to determine what is causing the problem.
Honda Accord Transmission Slip Fix
With a slipping transmission, you may notice that your car’s RPMs will rev very high, but it is slow to engage in the next gear. The car will not accelerate in speed.
The first thing you should do when your transmission starts slipping is to check the fluid levels. If it is low, add some. You should also inspect the transmission fluid. Pay attention to any variation in the color or texture of the fluid. If the fluid is a dark brownish color, it is old. If it is black it is burnt. It may also smell.
You will want to change the transmission fluid and then add new transmission fluid and replace the filter. It is suggested that the transmission fluid is replaced every thirty-thousand miles.
To change the transmission fluid in your car, here are step-by-step instructions:
Step 1
It is strongly suggested you raise your vehicle. Use a hydraulic car jack and make sure your vehicle is secure and will not move or fall. To do this, chalk the tires with your emergency brake engaged. Locate the transmission drain pan. There will be two bolts on it, fairly close to one another.
Step 2
The lower larger bolt is the one you will take out. You need a container with you to catch the transmission fluid as it comes out. Do not let it go on the ground! You will need a three-eighths inch square ratchet-type wrench to remove the bolt.
Step 3
Once the bolt is removed, the fluid will pour out quickly. Put the bolt back on your car and put new transmission fluid in where your dipstick is beneath the hood. Lower your car off the jacks and take it for a short drive while checking that all of your gears are working.
Step 4
It is strongly suggested you raise your vehicle. Use a hydraulic car jack and make sure your vehicle is secure and will not move or fall. To do this, chalk the tires with your emergency brake engaged. Locate the transmission drain pan. There will be two bolts on it, fairly close to one another.
Step 5
The lower larger bolt is the one you will take out. You need a container with you to catch the transmission fluid as it comes out. Do not let it go on the ground! You will need a three-eighths inch square ratchet-type wrench to remove the bolt.
Step 6
Once the bolt is removed, the fluid will pour out quickly. Put the bolt back on your car and put new transmission fluid in where your dipstick is beneath the hood. Lower your car off the jacks and take it for a short drive while checking that all of your gears are working.
Step 7
It is strongly suggested you raise your vehicle. Use a hydraulic car jack and make sure your vehicle is secure and will not move or fall. To do this, chalk the tires with your emergency brake engaged. Locate the transmission drain pan. There will be two bolts on it, fairly close to one another.
Step 8
The lower larger bolt is the one you will take out. You need a container with you to catch the transmission fluid as it comes out. Do not let it go on the ground! You will need a three-eighths inch square ratchet-type wrench to remove the bolt.
Step 9
Once the bolt is removed, the fluid will pour out quickly. Put the bolt back on your car and put new transmission fluid in where your dipstick is beneath the hood. Lower your car off the jacks and take it for a short drive while checking that all of your gears are working.
If you wish to completely flush your transmission redo the above steps three times. Check to make sure the bolt plug is tight and not leaking. Use the dipstick to make sure the level of fluid is correct.
If it is too much, you will need to drain some off. If there is not enough, some will need to be added. Too much or too little will cause problems with your automatic transmission.
Transmission fluid will naturally get darker and thinner over time. The thin fluid will not be able to cool the transmission properly. If not dealt with it could ruin the transmission. Also, check the transmission fluid pan gasket and make sure it is not leaking.
Honda Accord Not Shifting Properly
There are many ways you may notice improper shifting in your Honda Accord. As mentioned above, it is important to observe when the problem is happening.
Do you have problems when shifting from park into drive? Maybe you are having issues with it not shifting into OverDrive. Below we will study some of the problems with improper shifting and what can be done.
Honda Accord Automatic Transmission Not Shifting Properly
Improper shifting in an automatic transmission is noticed when you are shifting through the gears. When does the shifting issue occur? When your car is in park and you have difficulty getting the car to go into drive, it might be a damaged or malfunctioning shift linkage.
The shift linkage is a cable that runs from the front end of the car to the rear end. When adjusting or changing this cable you need to:
Step 1
Take the handle off of the gear shifter.
Step 2
Remove the console around the gear shifter.
Step 3
Put the shifter in the reverse position.
Step 4
Study how the cable attaches to the gear shifter.
Step 5
Put the gear shift in the park position.
Step 6
Unscrew the nut that holds the cable and remove the cable end from the shifter.
Step 7
There will be a connector area on the cable that needs to be removed from the main cable. Turn it to the left until it won’t move and apply pressure to the clip to disengage it.
Step 8
Engage the parking brake and make sure the wheels are chalked.
Step 9
Take the cover and heat shield from the cable beneath the car.
Step 10
Pull the shift cable out, and replace it with the new shift cable without damaging it. Reattach the new cable to the gear shift.
Step 11
Replace the heat shield, cable cover, console, and gear shift handle.
Another issue may be noticed if your car does not slowly move forward when the brake is not engaged. This could be due to the torque converter needing to be replaced.
Honda Accord Won’t Shift Out of First Gear
Learning the cause of why your Accord will not shift out of first will require the use of a diagnostics tool. Sometimes the problem can be from the IAC valve and wiring. The solenoid may also be malfunctioning.
Honda Accord Won’t Shift into OverDrive
There are a few things that could cause this issue. First, check to make sure the overdrive button is engaged. If an OD light is turned on the dashboard, the car’s brain is signaling that the overdrive button has been disengaged.
Faulty electrical wiring could also be causing the overdrive not to work. The solenoid may need replacing. Interestingly it could even be a faulty switch for the brake light. Attach the OBD II reader to your vehicle and then research any codes that it gives you.
Honda Accord Transmission Not Moving
You’ve put your car in gear and stepped on the accelerator. The car’s RPMs rev, but the car stays stationary. What could be going on? The torque converter may be malfunctioning, or the gear shift cable may have come loose or broken. Do a diagnostics check to determine the cause.
Honda Accord Won’t Shift Out of Park
This commonly has to do with your braking system. Oftentimes it can be a simple fix. Check the fuses, especially the brake fuse. Also, check to see if the brake lights come on. If you have a brake light out or a blown fuse it could cause the car not to shift out of park.
Another thing to check is the solenoid for the shift lock. This solenoid is activated when you apply the brake and allows you to move the gear shift. Use the diagnostics tool and do an online search to find the remedy to the problem.
Honda Accord Won’t Move in Reverse
If your Honda Accord will not move in reverse but does move in other gears, this could mean your transmission is going out and will need to be rebuilt or replaced. A solenoid in the shifting mechanism may also be the culprit and the car may need a new one.
Take your car to be looked at by a qualified mechanic. Be sure to explain any unusual sounds or behaviors. If you did a diagnostics test, report them to the mechanic. You can also tell the mechanic what you learned about the codes. This may make the mechanics job a bit more simple.
Copyright protected article by Know My Auto and was first published on Jun 4, 2021. .
Honda Accord Automatic Transmission Won’t Go Into Gear
When your Honda Accord automatic transmission won’t go into gear, you should suspect the shift link cable. This cable runs from the gear shift to the back end of the car. If this is the problem, there are instructions above on replacing the cable.
Shifting solenoids and the shift interlock could also cause problems with an automatic transmission not going into gear. Of course, it could be that the transmission has failed completely, and you will need to rebuild or replace it.
Honda Accord Transmission Won’t Go Into Gear
We’ve discussed what could be wrong with automatic transmissions that won’t go into gear, but for a Honda Accord with a standard transmission, it may be different.
A standard transmission does not have a torque converter, so you know right away that is not the problem. However, the gearbox of a manual transmission still requires maintenance. If you have not checked the fluid levels or had them changed, this could cause damage to your car.
The culprit is most often the clutch. If the clutch has worn out, you will not be able to shift gears. Replace the clutch with new parts.
The copyright owner of this article is Knowmyauto.com and was first published on Jun 4, 2021..
If it is not the clutch, it could be the transmission has become stuck in between gears. Inspect the gear shift mechanism and how it is engaged if possible. Otherwise, a mechanic will need to do this.
Honda Accord Transmission Won’t Engage
When your Honda Accord is having transmission troubles check the transmission fluid first. Your Accord holds about 8 quarts of transmission fluid. If it has lost more than a quart, you may start experiencing problems with shifting.
Inspect the transmission fluid to ensure it is clean, light in color, and is not thin. Use an OBD II that is made for the year range of your car to determine whether or not your car can help you pinpoint the problem. Check your filters and replace these when needed:
- Air filters,
- Oil filters, and
- Transmission filters.
Inspect your braking system. Ensure your brake lights work and all fuses are good. Check for bad solenoids, faulty electrical connections, and damaged or broken shifting cables. All of these can cause problems with the vehicle not engaging in gears.
If the torque converter is going out, which is most often the cause of Honda Accords transmission problems, you may be able to have it replaced if you act quickly. But, if you have been ignoring the issues you may end up needing to replace the entire transmission.
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KnowMyAuto is the sole owner of this article was published on Jun 4, 2021 and last updated on .