Transmission slipping gears

JANET WALTON

MEMBER
2002 TOYOTA RAV4
2.0L
4 CYL
4WD
AUTOMATIC
210,000 MILES

I replace the ECM but it does not want back up and it is slipping gears. How can I fix this problem?

Friday, April 27th, 2018 AT 8:56 AM

5 Replies

STEVE W.

MECHANIC
12,935 POSTS

Was the ECM replaced due to transmission issues? Was the replacement ECM fully programmed to match your vehicle?
First thing would be to check the transmission fluid level and the color and feel of it. When was the transmission last serviced? Slipping and no reverse and the mileage you list all point at a transmission that needs an overhaul.

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Friday, April 27th, 2018 AT 12:34 PM

JANET WALTON

MEMBER
3 POSTS

I know when the transmission was service last, I bought the vehicle last summer. Thank you for your reply.

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Friday, April 27th, 2018 AT 2:00 PM

STEVE W.

MECHANIC
12,935 POSTS

Do you mean you do not know or was it serviced when you bought it? Either way I would start with a fluid check and go from there.

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Saturday, April 28th, 2018 AT 8:51 AM

JANET WALTON

MEMBER
3 POSTS

I do not know if it was service when I bought it. But I will change the fluid, thank you.

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Saturday, April 28th, 2018 AT 9:08 AM

STEVE W.

MECHANIC
12,935 POSTS

Check it first. It may be full and okay. If it is brown/black and feels gritty then the issue will not be fixed with a fluid change. That would be a sign that the clutch plates inside the transmission are wearing out and the fluid has gotten very hot.
In that situation either a rebuild or replacement is about the only cure.
If however the fluid is clean but low then a fluid change may help.