I've done a search on transmission issues and wanted to get a bit more input before the car goes into the dealer for its 60K service this week, since it sounds expensive if they have to go into the transmission.

59K miles on 2003 SSEI. I'm second owner.

In drive, sitting at stoplight, when I give it gas, there will be a moment'* hesitation and then a loud CLUNK and shudder, then car moves. Feels like it slips momentarily then falls into gear.

No slipping that I can tell at any other speeds. Downshift is occasionally not-so-silky but not alarming. Problem only seems to show up at a stop, when I first hit the gas.

Does not happen every time...but is now happening more frequently...daily now it'll happen at least once every trip I make.

Slight "burnt oil" smell coming from engine compartment but no obvious leaks...just in case this matters. Car has been well-maintained as best I can tell.

bonus question...$500 for a 60K service at a dealership about right? What the heck do they do?

Thanks!

have a friend help you. have them start the car and shift it between reverse and drive while you watch the motor. How much does it move? Your front motor/transmission mount might be done for.

http://www.bonnevilleclub.com/forum/...ic.php?t=47949

what color is your transmission fluid? what does it smell like?

thanks! I'm going to check the level and give it a sniff test tonight.

I'm hoping this isn't going to be a major (read: expensive) thing.

Love the car, just hoping it isn't going to eat me out of house and home.

ps - aagh...$640 for the 60K service.

you should be able to ask the dealer to break down the costs of what they are exactly doing. post them here. I bet we can work you through 90% of their checks.

oil & filter
rotate tires
wheel alignment
fuel filter valve
repl trans fluid
fuel system service


sorta looks like a routine service check at any other place.

I thought there would be something supercharger-specific going on.

then again, the person on the phone sounded really unfamiliar with stuff. The service schedule, service department, cars in general....maybe I should call another dealer.

Sounds like I ought to have them check out the CLUNK if I can't figure it out, and then have a local shop that I trust do a complete fluids swap. I'm okay with paying for maintenance but it just sounds high to me.

thoughts?

how about we try to diagnosis it before you keep worrying about it

get out there and check that mount!

I'm trapped at work! I'd MUCH rather be lavishing attention on my car than sitting here fretting.





PS - thanks for putting up with me...

I agree with Haro. What you are describing with the clunk is most likely a bad front transmission mount.

I'll third the floppy mount theory. (Wait til you look at it..lol)

As for all the other things they listed on that service. If you haven't done it..don't. We can talk you through all of it for probably under $100 in parts and a couple of dirty hands.