1990 Toyota Corolla Gear Change

PRASHEEL

MEMBER
1990 TOYOTA COROLLA

Transmission problem
1990 Toyota Corolla 4 cyl Two Wheel Drive Automatic 150 00 miles

I have had my Carolla for a year now, went fine until recently. The engine kept cutting out and the car didn't seem to know what gear to be in or when to change. Took it too the mechanic and they replaced the distributor. The engine doesn't cut out anymore however there still seems to be a problem with the transmission, the cars doesnt seem to know what gear to be in or when to change. Any ideas what the problem may be?

1 Reply

MMPRINCE4000

MECHANIC
8,549 POSTS

Check the transmission fluid level with engine running and transmission warm, add as needed.
Also check the gear select cable to make sure the connection is not loose at the transmission, shift through all gears and watch the selector on the transmission to make sure it is moving.

The other problem could be the TV (kick down) cable. It regulates hydraulic pressure in the transmission based on throttle position (it is connected via cable to the throttle body cam along with the accelerator pedal cable).
You can rotate the TB cam and disconnect the TV cable, then pull on it gently to make sure there is resistance, if none the cable may be broke or kinked and must be replaced immediately.
If you feel resistance make sure the adjustments nuts are tight.