1989 Prelude Si Automatic Tramission - Honda Prelude Forum

nguyenti · 08-26-2010, 01:05 PM

Hi,

I have the 89 Prelude Si. The Transmissionis recently acting up. When the engine is cold, the transmission won't shift to third or fourth gears. The RMP is up to 4K at 40 mile/hour and I cannot go any faster since the engine is working very hard. After about 10 minutes running or when the engine is hot, the transmission starts to work normally. However, the gear changing make a big kick and not as smooth as it used to be. Any suggestion to fix this problem is appreciated.

Thanks,
Tinh

ltlesister · 12-11-2011, 02:05 PM

I was having the same problem right up until yesterday. Now the transmission doesn't shift at all even after it warms up. I am not able to get out of first gear and so I have drive home in first gear, with engine reving at 3500 RPM. I usually had the fluid changed annually. Does this indicate a transmission failure?

So I ended up with having several mechanics and tecs look at the transmission. There was no easy or cheap fix. In the end I found a friend who uninstalled the old transmission then installed a rebuilt transmission. Vehicle is running perfectly now. Was a costly venture but worth it to me to keep the car.

toby tough · 12-15-2011, 06:38 AM

I'm not an expert on these cars but I think I remeber some threads talkin' about the solenoids that actuate the shifting. Some of them mention cleaning these items of gunk that gets built up in them. Could be worth searchin threads for this proceedure. I have picked up alot of info. this way.As far as it not shifting at all,maybe it's toast,IDK.

Colfax · 01-08-2012, 05:47 AM

Sorry for the slow response, but I saw this on another forum and remembered this thread. Maybe it'll help...
Auto Transmission Solenoid maintenance DIY procedure - Honda Prelude Forum : Honda Prelude Forums

lude~dude · 01-28-2012, 05:03 PM

I'm having trouble with a speed sensor in my auto it won't shift out of 3rd I start in 3rd and drive in 3rd all the time. You should see if its the sensor also can anyone tell me what trany they have I have the k4 but all the research shows I should have a L4

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