Does a Really Old Car Need a Transmission?
Q. I have a rusty but trusty 1990 Toyota Corolla with 266,000 miles that has an automatic transmission. While driving, the car’s RPMs fall and when I push on the accelerator, it doesn’t accelerate, just roars. It feels like the transmission isn’t shifting or going into neutral. I pull over and none of the gears seem to work. I put the car in park and shut off the engine and wait. Then I start the car again, put it in gear, and it drives normally for a few minutes, and then goes back to the same problem. What is wrong, and do I need a transmission?
A. Considering the car is 24 years old, it is certainly possible it could need a transmission. Although, the first place I would start is with the basics, which includes checking the fluid level and condition. If the fluid is low it will act as you describe. If you find your car does need a transmission have your repair shop fully evaluate the car before you consider an expensive transmission repair.
To comment, please create a screen name in your profile
To comment, please verify your email address
Conversation
This discussion has ended. Please join elsewhere on Boston.com