QuestionThe auto transmission on our 2000 S70 (181K miles) balked a bit yesterday, shortly after its early morning startup. This morning, it would not engage at all. Eventually I got it to creep a few feet in low gear, then a few yards in reverse -- then nothing, even after 20 minutes of engine warmup. Today was the 16th straight day of subnormal temperatures here; it went to 15F last night (though three nights ago was even colder).
Over Christmas break, we drove it 850 miles to Florida, where we found the engine oil 5 1/2 quarts down! I had checked and filled the oil 15 days (700 mi.) before (it uses about a quart every 1250 miles). I had taken it into the shop just before we left to have a headlamp replaced; they did a full inspection. It is still using qt/1250 mi. I suspect the shop may have screwed up the order and drained the oil without replacing it.
What's up with the transmission? Is it the temperature? Is the fluid low? Why hasn't the transmission light come on?
AnswerDavid, Those engines do burn oil. The only repair is a Complete valve job. I agree, Its possible it was a mistake. As far as the trans, Those transmissions do go bad. If the trans fluid hasnt been changed, and then you change it, then it will be over soon. Its a unfortunate thing that happens with these. Roger
