Hello --- I can't seem to find my trans symptom on the forum. My 2003 PA with 127K started re-shifting at a smooth 40, 50 and even 60 mph. I am suspecting a bad pressure control solenoid. I am also experiencing a code 171, which appears to be an intake gasket leak, since I have replaced the fuel filter and cleaned the MAF. I am also getting a code 102, which is a "Low Output from the MAF". Could these affect the transmission?

Am going to add some SeaFoam today, but worry if driving the car will damage the tranny.

Thoughts?

Not sure what you mean by reshifting......

Before dumping unnecessary money into it, give us a chance to help you first.

First thing is, we need the accurate P code. You have a 2003, which is OBD 2. OBD codes are 4 digits long and are preceded by a P. Example:P0171, or P0300.

Get us the codes and we can go from there.

By re-shifting, I mean it is dropping out and re-engaging. I am using a "Car.Tool OBD 2" code reader, that doesn't show the "P". I am getting 0102 & 0171 codes. My local shop wants $1430 for a complete overhaul -- says he 4T65 is their bread & butter!!

Could the 0171 cause this problem? ----thanks for your response.

No, not really, but the P0102 can make the engine run like crap causing the PCM to do all sorts of weird things.

I can't believe the trans shop actually told you that. But then again, they would have replaced your MAF sensor and still charged you $1500 for a trans service that never happened.

P0171 is a system LEAN bank 1. Basically the PCM is seeing too much oxygen from the left side of the engine. Sometimes it can be due to other things.

Here is what you need to do. Disconnect the MAF sensor electrical connector. Start the engine. If it starts and runs, drive it around the block. Does it drive better than before?(note: this may make the engine actually run a little sluggish, but still run)

If so, replace the MAF sensor. About $150 at autozone. Install it, clear your codes.

BTW, there is no such thing as a mechanic in a bottle.

Thanks Mike -- I had code 171 last winter. It disappeared until this winter. O'Reilly tells me the problem is a leaking intake manifold gasket, for which they sell a new gasket for about $50. I cleaned the MAF sensor, installed a new fuel filter and cleaned the battery ground connection, all of which are given as possible fixes to a 171 code. So now, is the problem the gasket or a bad MAF sensor? I hate the thought of replacing the intake manifold gasket --- did that on a 1989 Olds 98, for the coolant leaking problem they had.

This summer I did an upgrade, with a new water pump, belt, thermostat, hoses, coolant, plugs and wires. I replaced the OEM hose clamp on top with a screw clamp, but failed apparently to tighten it sufficiently, and it popped-off going down the interstate! I kicked it in neutral, shut off the engine, and luckily coasted into a station. Let it cool down, refilled the radiator and got home. The engine seems fine. I just don't have any faith in the OEM spring clamps, especially if one gets anti-freeze on the joint. So I now have a safety wire on the top clamp so it can't come off again. I'm 75, and have worked on many a radiator. I've never had this happen before, but also haven't had that much experience with the plastic radiator parts. In this case, they didn't put much of a annular "bump" on the connector.

So -- along with new air shocks on the rear, I have some money in this car. hoping to run it to 200k. My neighbor has worked on transmissions for 40 years, and owns his shop -- very honest, reputable and knowledgeable. Says the 4T65'* are his bread & butter because of their problems. Says the replacement parts are typically hardened, vs the OEM stuff. Do you know of a class-action suit on these trannys?

Thanks for your advice ---rework

So after cleaning the MAF, did you reset the PCM and do a test drive?

Yes -- but the 171 comes back soon. I am going to install the Fel-Pro MS 98014 T Intake manifold gasket kit today. If that solves the 171 code, I am also hoping it solves the trans issue --- unlikely.

Wait, you initially got a code for low MAF output AFTER you cleaned it?

Yes -- But I got 171 code most of the time. The 102 came on just recently.