1988 Nissan Pathfinder signs of transmission problems?

OXMYX

MEMBER
1988 NISSAN PATHFINDER
6 CYL
4WD
AUTOMATIC
288,000 MILES

Hi - My '88 Nissan Pathfinder has had a problem in cold weather with shifting to highway speed. I have to go about 3 miles or so before it settles into its last shift. Two days ago, I noticed that my 'old girl' has refused to shift at all on my way to work (I live about 20 miles from work, via interstate). The transmission is original and has never required any work other than fluid changes. Are we heading for trouble here? What do I need to get checked out? Thank you so much!

Friday, May 30th, 2008 AT 4:43 PM

2 Replies

KHLOW2008

MECHANIC
41,814 POSTS

Hi oxmyx,

If the trans cannot upshift, definitely you are heading for trouble if you don't try to solve it.

Does manual upshifting work?

It could be the valve body valves getting stiff.

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Friday, June 6th, 2008 AT 8:45 AM

OXMYX

MEMBER
2 POSTS

KHL - it's an automatic transmission; I don't know how to manuallly upshift. I also can't get an accurate reading on fluid - I've tried checking it several times but when the engine is running, the fluid is all over the stick, even after I wipe it off and reinsert it. Hmmm. Guess it's time to have it looked at by a professional. Drat. Thank you for your reply.

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Friday, June 6th, 2008 AT 10:29 AM