2001 S80 T6 Transmission Going?

[ffejie]

I have a 2001 S80 T6 (195K miles!) and I fear the transmission might be going. I can feel a little slipping when switching gears occasionally. At low speeds I have heard a dull knocking when in stop-and-go traffic. When shifting between reverse and drive (think: parallel parking) occasionally the engine shuts off. Lastly, on a low tank of gas (less than 1/4 filled) it occasionally idles hard.

I asked my local mechanic who is very good with Volvo's and he actually recommended that to rebuild/replace a transmission AAMCO is probably my best bet. I can't tell if that's an honest recommendation or just because he doesn't want to have a job like that on his plate (he's a small one-man shop). He said it's just a Chevy tranny, and they're going to be very competent and pretty price competitive.

Question #1: Are my symptoms above likely to mean a new tranny is in my future?
Question #2: Is a place like AAMCO really my best bet to get a tranny replaced?
Question #3: AAMCO (and others) recommend that you bring your car in at the first sign of trouble: "to avoid a costly breakdown." Is it likely to cost significantly more if the car breaks down rather than if I sense something is wrong and bring it in "preventatively?"

Thanks, and I'd like to add that this is by far the best, most active Volvo site out there. Thanks for taking the time to read through and help someone out!

[jbrown122]

First, I'd change the transmission fluid and filter. There's a tutorial here for that.

Second, as for the roughness, it kind of sounds like there might be some junk at the bottom of the gas tank. Change the filter first though.

Good luck and report back please!