2001 Chevy Impala Acceleration and gear hesitation?

BIGDIZZLE313

MEMBER
2001 CHEVROLET IMPALA
6 CYL
FWD
AUTOMATIC
90,413 MILES

I'm starting to experience some problems with my 2001 Chevy Impala. It is struggling to accelerate at times and I have to hit the gas harder than I used to in order to get it in gear. However, when I do that, the car becomes hesitant to switch gears (it performs like it doesn't want to). Also, my brakes seem to be "pulsating" every time I apply the brakes.

1 Reply

RENAUDTN

MECHANIC
636 POSTS

Hello there,

The brakes and your transmission are probably two separate issues. You probably need a brake job, and have the discs resurfaced or replaced altogether.
As far as the transmission, you should start by checking your level of ATF (automatic transmission fluid): drive around until the transmission is at normal temperature (about 20 minutes). Park the car and let it idle. Shift in all gear, waiting 2/3 seconds in each gear, then go back to P. Pop the hood and remove the ATF stick, wipe it clean, put it back in there then remove it to check the level (just like your would do for your oil). If the level is too low, add a little bit of the proper kind of ATF (Mercon III or V I believe). Be careful though; it takes about one pint to go from the bottom of the crossmark to the top of it. Don't overfill! Also check the ATF (is it dark? Does it smell burnt? Etc if yes to any of the previous, service your transmission).
A low level of ATF could explain the sluggish performance of your transmission.
If you still have problem, take it to a chevy dealer and have them scan your transmission for codes.

Good luck