Automatic Transmissions ... what to do?

[Mako Koiwai]

What type of servicing do auto tranny's require? I've got close to 150K on my van; Karen 80+K on her VW Cabio?

Aamco auto tranny "computerized" flushes?

[Tom Phillips]

Mako -
It's just MHO, but stay away from franchised auto repair shops. I know it depends on the franchise owner, but most hire some kid that hasn't got the brains God gave a pissant to work on your car. I watched a kid at a Midas shop years ago drive a screwdriver into a muffler on a pristine 56 Crown Victoria and then tell the owner he needed a new muffler. (long story short, he got a new muffler free)
I would look in the Yellow Pages for an established shop, then visit them. If the shop is clean, well organized, has a bunch of training certificates on the wall, they will probably do a good job. They also know word of mouth is their biggest advertiser.
Failing that, Boston Transmissions in Montebello did a great job on the Vette. Ask for Joe, the owner.
Tom

[Chuck Fowler]

Leon's Transmissions in reseda

[Mako Koiwai]

Karen was complaining about some type of "jump" in the tranny when starting off. Experienced it the first time myself tonight. Will check the ATF fluid Sunday morning.

[Larry Andrews]

Often means there is a bit of gunk in the valve body that's making it hard for something to move properly. I have the same problem in my Civic - for a year or so now. Changing the fluid did nothing for me and I just drive carefully so as not to wipe out the clutch packs. I may have to pour some cash into that car if it ever lets go.

[Chuck Fowler]

Karen was complaining about some type of "jump" in the tranny when starting off. Experienced it the first time myself tonight. Will check the ATF fluid Sunday morning.

could be the torque converter too

[Mako Koiwai]

Apparently hers' is one of the infamous VW Cabrio sealed Lifetime fluid tranny's, ie. no dip stick! Tranny doesn't want to engage on hills ... scary and dangerous!

Recommendations ... suggestions?

I'm thinking Honda FIT.

[Chuck Fowler]

Recommendations ... suggestions?

take it to a tranny shop?

[Mako Koiwai]

Any suggestion for a tranny shop around Glendale/Burbank/Pasadena?

(rather have the new FIT)

[Tom Phillips]

About a century ago I worked for Ken Daniels at Ken Daniels Auto Repair. They call it Glendale, but it's really in Montrose
Back then, it was a straight, no BS company. Did a good job, stood behind their work, got a fair price.
Here is a link.
http://www.kendanielsauto.com/
There is also a link to page that has a trans service coupon.
They might be worth a look at.
Tom

[Mako Koiwai]

Ken Daniels is excellent ... I didn't realize they do tranny work also. They've done other work for me. Thanks for the reminder

[Tom Berry]

Mako;
I am in very well with a general repair shop here in Rancho that has a top notch trans guy on staff.
It a little bit of a drive but he has treated me and the dozen or so folks that I have referred to him very well !
Rancho Auto Service. Jerry
It would be better if I handled the intro !
Tom

[Mako Koiwai]

Thanks ... problem is the weird sealed VW "lifetime" tranny. Doug Teule says that only a VW/Audi specific shop should deal with it. Hoping we just use it for a trade in. Any leads on a used '08 Honda Sport Fit. The '09's are getting porky already.