QuestionI have owned this volvo since 70,000 miles, now 172,000 miles, always well maintained. Auto transmission, also been a little jerky. Son said to change transmission fluid because black and gunky. Had this done at Jiffy Lube. Now 6 weeks later my transmission is slipping, particularly in first gear. This morning going up small incline into parking lot, it slipped and finally gripped. Is hesitating and occasionally slipping in lower gears then connects. Could this be something to do with fluid change, i.e. not done properly, wrong fluid, they made some mistake with exchange, or just a coincidence? Is this also an indication that the transmission is dying or some other problem?
I would appreciate any help or advice you can give me. I do not want to give up this car, but also do not want to spend $3,000 plus for new transmission. Thanks for your help and advice.
Lynne Shewmaker
AnswerHello Lynne, There were two types of transmissions used that year.The first,has a gear shift that reads 'P R N D 3 2 1 ,that model was prone to failure,and it was most often after a fluid change.The other type the shifter read,P R N D 2 1, this model is the perfered model,AW-71.The first is the ZF model.I will trust a used AW-71 model.This model required a fluid change every 20k and that ment only drainning and refilling.Fluid required is Dextron 3 in either case.Check your bill for the type they used.If the ZF model is used,opt for 're-manufactured unit',labor should be in the range of 4-6 hrs. and replace the rear engine seal,for its age and its location.Thank you and good hunting! PKD
