Late transmission shift cold
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Joined: Apr 2004
Posts: 51
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From: California
Late transmission shift cold
Can anyone give me some help. I have a 1998 LS400 with 83K. I just had the transmission flushed and fluid replaced. The tech said the oil was like a smoothie and had a lot of bubbles in it. I was experiencing a harsh late (2000-2250 rpm) 1st shift when I 1st start it in the morning only. Then after the 1st shift of the day, everything seems normal.(1600-1650 rpm on light pedal). Now after the fluid change, the 1st shift of the day is still delayed, but is more crisp. Is this normal?
Lead Lap
Joined: Feb 2001
Posts: 502
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From: Muskegon, Michigan
AFAIK, this normal. I think the engine tries to warm itself by providing a late first shift when the engine is cold. My GS did it and now so does my LS. Just don't pounce on the pedal when it's cold and let it gradually rev up until it shifts.
Brian
Brian
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Joined: Apr 2004
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From: California
Thank you guys for the quick reply!! I feel a whole lot better. Should I worry about what the tech said about the fluid looking like a smoothie? and with lots of air bubbles?..Thanks again
Originally Posted by newwave88
I just bought the car at 82,000. I had the trans oil changed at 83,000, I really don't know what history the car previously had..
Gives you an indea of what might needs to be replaced.
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Joined: Apr 2004
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From: California
Thanks for the advice. I had that done and the only major service the Lexus records show is a 60k. I asked the dealership what they do, they said "inspect" the auto trans fluid. I guess I will just start a trans pan drain when I do oil changes for a while to keep an eye on the transmission. Thanks again for your advice! 
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Joined: Oct 2001
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From: New Mexico
My '99 does exactly the same thing on the first shift. I asked the dealer about this when I had it in for service, and they said it was normal (althought they didn't explain it).
I like Brian's explanation, and advice
I like Brian's explanation, and advice
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