Honda Repair: Possible Transmission Problem, honda automatic transmission fluid, automatic transmission fluid

Question
QUESTION: Hey Travis,

I have a 97 Honda Civic DX (automatic transmission) with approx. 93k miles.  My car makes a thump noise and you can feel a jerk  when the car slows down and then accelerates.  This especially happens when going down a hill and then accelerating.  The transmission fluid was changed about 500 miles ago.  No problems when the car goes above 30 mph.  What do you think is causing this problem?

Thanks!

ANSWER: You can't really say with 100% certain that this is a transmission problem. Could be a ball joint? Upper or lower. Could be a CV axle. Could be alot of different things. I would definitely take the car to a front end specialist and have that inspected. Or do it yourself and save a few dollars. Transmission i would have checked last. Torque converters can cause this too. If you can provide more details and be very specific maybe i can give you a better response. Let me know in a follow up!

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Especially in stop and go traffic (and hills)...if you let go of the gas pedal and slowly accelerate again, the car will jerk and make a loud thump (sounds like it's coming from the transmission).  This only happens at low speeds (under 30 mph).  It doesn't happen all the time though.  My mechanic thought it might be the transmissions but he's not a specialist in transmissions.  

Thanks again!

Answer
Chris, i would try replacing a few of the solenoids on the transmission first. Then, I would agree, replace the transmission and torque converter. Only use Honda Automatic Transmission fluid too. Try finding a used one with low miles. Or have yours rebuilt?