Signs of transmission getting tired? XC V70 1998

schuckles · Post by **schuckles** » 15 Jan 2017, 01:25

Hi,

My Vol just passed 200,000 miles. I've taken insanely good care of it, don't use the turbo too much, get it serviced by a seasoned vol tech when the service light goes on. She's been OK. Had issues on the way to Tahoe, had the altitude sensor replaced, but I digress.

The transmission in this car has always, sort of, shifted a little 'rougher' than I'd like. Like, at times in stop and go traffic, the transmission will slip into 3rd gear as I brake to anticipate California 101 traffic BS. My car is currently in the shop for an unrelated issue and using a non turbo loaner. The loaner's transmission seems smoother, but on the other hand, it seems to exhibit some of the same harsh shifting. A good example is the locking torque converter, in both cars when cruising at 62 MPH, as soon as I let off the gas, both transmissions seems to loose their lock and after a few miliseconds, the lock engages and the RPMs dip slightly.

Is it me? Should I shovel money away for a new tranny?

Thanks,
Jon

Post by **abscate** » 15 Jan 2017, 04:22

An AT trans swap isn't too bad if the rest of the car runs well. Have you be en draining and refilling fluid on a regular schedule ?

No " power flushes " for an old car. Keep it simple

Post by **FlyingVolvo** » 15 Jan 2017, 04:40

When was the fluid last changed? I initially did about 3 "drain & fills" and put a Magnefine inline filter on mine. I do a drain/fill about once a year now.

I highly recommend putting in Mobil 1 Synthetic ATF. It's pricey (look for sales or Amazon prime it!), but my car is closing in on 250K and the transmission (appears) to be just fine. Every once in a while I do experience a wonky shift, or a little clunk if I let off the pedal while accelerating hard. It's been doing those for over 100K since I've had it though.

I hope yours is fine!

Post by **scot850** » 15 Jan 2017, 15:35

Try a drain and fill like the guys suggest. If it has not been done recently then it is way over due. I also get some rough shifts on 3rd but I have a 5-speed auto, but it improved after a fluid change. The drain and fill over 3 engine oil changes should make a big difference.

Also check the engine torque mounts for wear and the engine pad under the crank pulley. Those also can aid with rough shifts.

Neil.