2008 Transmission Problems Too!

[scottkm]

We just got a 2008 4Cyl with the 5spd auto. Only had it two weeks.
When driving 35-45mph, the tranny will shift up into 5th gear and then basically STAY there. As we approach a slight upward grade, the tachometer is stuck at 1200 RPM and the whole car shudders and vibrates as the engine "lugs" down. We find ourselves constantly playing with the gas pedal in order to FORCE the tranny to downshift.
Took it to dealer. They experienced same thing. They said it was "Normal for this model - at this time". They quietly told me they are getting other complaints and look forward to Toyota releasing new programming for the ECU.
Three different drivers and rear passengers have quickly remarked about this "sensation" when going up any grade. We experience this constantly driving here in Maine. Interstate and inner city driving is fine. If we move the gated shifter to "4" - it resolves this problem. Dealer said this is normal. So I actually purchased a "manual" automatic transmission??? Do we just stop whining and retrain ourselves or do you folks think we can look forward to a solution?
Our 2004 Camry, 2002 Tundra and our 1999 Solara had wonderful transmissions.

Thank you in advance for any input!

Scott

[1956kiteboarder]

Document every thing writing, get the service manager to put what he said in writing.
Also Call Toyota Corperate customer Service. Take it to another Toyota dealer.
be persistent but polite. The problem you describe sounds like a new variation of tranni trouble. Keep us updated.

Phone: 800-331-4331
Fax: 310-468-7814
Mon - Fri: 5:00 am - 6:00 pm PT
Sat: 7:00 am - 4:00 pm PT

Or send correspondence to:
Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.
19001 South Western Ave.
Dept. WC11
Torrance, CA 90501

[Raddius]

Originally Posted by scottkm

We just got a 2008 4Cyl with the 5spd auto. Only had it two weeks.
When driving 35-45mph, the tranny will shift up into 5th gear and then basically STAY there. As we approach a slight upward grade, the tachometer is stuck at 1200 RPM and the whole car shudders and vibrates as the engine "lugs" down. We find ourselves constantly playing with the gas pedal in order to FORCE the tranny to downshift.
Took it to dealer. They experienced same thing. They said it was "Normal for this model - at this time". They quietly told me they are getting other complaints and look forward to Toyota releasing new programming for the ECU.
Three different drivers and rear passengers have quickly remarked about this "sensation" when going up any grade. We experience this constantly driving here in Maine. Interstate and inner city driving is fine. If we move the gated shifter to "4" - it resolves this problem. Dealer said this is normal. So I actually purchased a "manual" automatic transmission??? Do we just stop whining and retrain ourselves or do you folks think we can look forward to a solution?
Our 2004 Camry, 2002 Tundra and our 1999 Solara had wonderful transmissions.

Thank you in advance for any input!

Scott

Assuming this actually is an ECU program problem I wonder why Toyota would stray from the ECU program for TSB EG036-07 unless that's the one causing the problem? From my experience that's a gem of a program. It did wonders for my I4 and it had no shifting problems going up the Grapevine or the grade by Castaic (both long, steep grades in California).

Also, despite what the service tech said, what you describe IS NOT normal operation for your model or any vehicle model in the history of vehicles. Can you imagine that kind of response from an aviation tech dismissing issues the pilot brings forward about the plane not climbing properly and having a lot of shaking?

Hope it all gets sorted out.

[Streaker]

Not normal. I'm driving a 2008 LE dealer loaner with the I4 and the 5 spd auto and have not experienced your problem. If it was there I'd have experienced it.

[holimont]

Haven't had this problem with my 2008 I-4 after 5 weeks.

[itzsteven]

My 08 doesn't have that problem yet, bought it last month, and I just put around 200 miles on it, so I will wait and see.

[Rapid Roy]

Check the date it was manufactured. If it was prior to August 07, the dealer might need to apply the latest ECU flash.

[bigloubumpin]

I took mine in about 1 1/2 month ago & they told me that the car was operating normal.I occasionlly have flares & some funny downshifting.They need to get a recall out there already,atleast they sent me a recall notice for the stupid floor mats.When I go in for my 10,000mi oil change I'll have them look at it again.

[Yazovets]

If the dealer is not being cooperative, head on down to headquarters.

Toyota Canada HQ is located just off the 401 in the east end of my city. So if a dealer pisses me off, I can make noise at Toyota HQ in a matter of 30 minutes later.

Consider this as an option.

[desentrix]

I had my ECU software updated, despite the car being manufactured this May. I agree with the others are saying, your transmission is not working as intended. Make sure you document everything, that way if sh*t hits the fan, maybe you can fall back on the lemon law.

[holimont]

Can you tell me how to find the manufacturing date for 2008 LE I4, sequential production number 214051?

Before one of you guys start babbling about "search", I have. And I am old.

[Luna2]

Originally Posted by holimont

Can you tell me how to find the manufacturing date for 2008 LE I4, sequential production number 214051?

Before one of you guys start babbling about "search", I have. And I am old.

Look in the drivers door jam, area.

[holimont]

Thanks, Luna2. Found it. 09/07.

[Luna2]

Your car was produced after the TSB EG036-07. I think that the suggestion that you have a "LEMON" bad transmission might be true. I wouldn't dismiss sticking electric valves or a mis-wiring problem. Sorry to hear, Wish you the best of luck, you may need it.

PS: My son suggested that you write all of the problems, symptoms and how/when they occur. Get the service department to sign it, make a copy, you keep the original, for your records.

[clarkgrizwald]

eat your heart out 6ers! gen 5.5 fo life!!