QuestionThere are two problems with my 2000 Corolla, possibly related. The most pressing is the automatic transmission, which has been less and less willing to shift out of park and into gear over the past week. It will only shift when I step on the accelerator more than usual, and sometimes 'slips' out of gear when more power is needed, i.e. on a hill. A check engine light came on two days ago, though I haven't been able to take it to a mechanic yet because of the weekend.
This started soon after I changed the oil in the car. After draining the pan, I had put in 2 quarts of oil (the manual calls for 3) yet the dipstick showed the oil as more than full. I didn't want to put in a 3rd quart so just left it as is. Why would the oil system suddenly have a 1 quart capacity?
AnswerI would recommend taking it to a Toyota dealer and find out what the diagnostic trouble code is.
I'm not sure what is going on with the transmission, there may not be enough fluid in it, normally draining and refilling it requires about 3and1/2 quarts because when draining the fluid in the trans you are also draining the differential unit, both share the same fluid.
Make sure you check the transfluid with the engine warmed up at idle and in park.
Should there be a major problem it may be covered under the 5yr/60,000 mile powertrain warranty, that it why I recommend you have a dealer take a look at it.
