Need some advice. I'm having an acceleration/transmission delay issue. When the car is stopped, and I gas it, it takes a second or two before it actually engages. The car revs the whole time, but there's a delay before the tranny decides to engage. This will happen pretty much anytime the car comes to a complete stop. (BTW it's an 01 with a GTE/a340 if that makes any difference)
Thanks for any help!

 

My GS430 has a half second delay at times and I have a code relating to the torque converter solenoid. I'm looking to get it in to a transmission shop for two new solenoids and full oil and filter change to see if that cures it.

You should scan for codes.

 

Scanning it is a good idea. But check the fluid level first. If fluid leaked out over time, it will cause delays and slippage. Car has to be running when checking trans fluid level. The stick is on the driver's side near the back of the engine and brake master. If low, add fluid till full and see if that makes a difference. If so, identify and repair your leak. If not, pressure has dropped in the trans and it will be time for a rebuild or replacement. Toyota did not put a filter in this transmission. Just a pickup screen, so you won't restore any performance by changing it.
How many miles on the car and any knowledge of fluid exchanges in its past?

 

Transmission shop found the car was three litres/quarts low on fluid but the fluid condition was ok. Strange as there's no signs of a leak since the gearbox was changed a few years back, so I suspect it's been driven like that since then!

He topped it up and I've been driving it a week. All good now, no delay on the torque converter and all gears available again. I haven't cleared or scanned again for codes but I'm hopeful that's the end of it. Hopefully no long term damage from being run so low.

I hope your issue will be as simple.

 

Glad to hear it's working, but running it like that for years will definity cause premature failure in the future. If that is the shop that did the work, you may want to make sure it is documented well and get a copy in case it goes out within a few years. Or ask for an extension on whatever their warranty is, because that's BS. If there are no leaks, it was never filled up. That is very bad for the transmission.

 

Yes it's not ideal. I bought the car blind and got a pile of bills from the previous owner including one from a local motorbike garage to fit a second hand box two years back. There was only labour on it so I'm guessing they didn't even check the ATF level!

The thousands of miles done since then with only half the oil is testament to the build quality and the punishment they can take, but it's highly likely to have added far more wear than was necessary.