2001 PT Cruiser hesitates and jerks into reverse/drive

[quicksilverdon]

Be sure where you take it has a flushing machine. I paid close to $200, and had it done at 50,000 miles.
Let us know after if it cured it.

[BranVonWolfe]

Thanks to all for the helpful replies.

I'm taking the PT in for the flush tomorrow morning.

I'll post again with the results before the end of the weekend.

[Mal]

I'm sure it's been discussed here before but most manufacturers don't recommend flushes; in fact, many recommend against them. Definately don't spend $200 on a questionable service before checking the fluid level....

[BranVonWolfe]

Yeah, so it was fluid level. Hose from the transmission to the radiator came undone, thus causing the leak.
It was a simple fix and turned out okay.
Didn't do the flush and fill, transmission guy I took it to said he "doesn't do flushes and doesn't own the machine."
Something about too much risk involved with possible damage a flush can cause.
Gathering from earlier posts, I'm sure this has been debated before.
I do plan on getting the transmission "serviced"within the next couple days, but I'm debating on getting it flushed.

[cjb15]

Just a couple of questions for you all on the transmission flushing. Does the fluid typically get discolored and or smell burnt on the PTs as the reason to flush?
Or is the fluid still clean and you still flush it any based on mileage?

I've read about the truck guys flushing the transmission by removing the cooler hose, running the engine and pouring fresh fluid in the trans filler until clean fluid exits the disconnected line.
Would this work on a PT?

[Mal]

I suspect it would work but not only do I think it a bad idea but it is entirely possible that it would not change the fluid in the torque converter. I know in some trannies it does not, the PT, I don't know.

I know what you are getting at, that there is really no need to go to drastic measures to completely change the fluid if it is visually OK and I think you're right. I don't like flushes or changes that involve running the engine but certainly not if the oil is visually and "aroma" OK.

To the OP, what "service" are you going to have done? I can't say how many times I've heard, "I just had my XXX serviced and now it XXX; which normally involves some problem that didn't exist prior to the "service". If it is now working normally, if I were doing it; I would get the fluid and filter changed and call it a day. DIY is easy if you are the least bit mechanically inclined. If it works; don't mess with it. Your trannie guy is correct IMHO.

[BranVonWolfe]

Originally Posted by Mal

To the OP, what "service" are you going to have done? I can't say how many times I've heard, "I just had my XXX serviced and now it XXX; which normally involves some problem that didn't exist prior to the "service". If it is now working normally, if I were doing it; I would get the fluid and filter changed and call it a day. DIY is easy if you are the least bit mechanically inclined. If it works; don't mess with it. Your trannie guy is correct IMHO.

Yeah, I know what you mean.
According to the tranny guy I spoke to, he quoted me $69 for a drain pan, filter and fluid change. That is what he deemed a "transmission service."
I definitely would classify myself in the "least bit" mechanically inclined category, but I live in a complex with no driveway or real space for DIY repairs.
Just out of curiousity, what's the normal cost for a fluid and filter change doing it DIY?

[Mal]

$25 or so for the filter and the gasket and $5.50 a qt for 5 qts of Castrol full synthetic atf+4 fluid. Your man may be skimping a little on the fluid but that is a fair charge; maybe even a great deal. I'm sure he will but make sure he uses atf+4 not some "universal" atf.... if not; buy it yourself. You may pay a bit more total but he won't mind.

[BranVonWolfe]

Originally Posted by Mal

$25 or so for the filter and the gasket and $5.50 a qt for 5 qts of Castrol full synthetic atf+4 fluid. Your man may be skimping a little on the fluid but that is a fair charge; maybe even a great deal.

Good to know. Thanks for the info!

EDIT: Added info noted.

[Mal]

Quick response; hopefully you'll see the edit...