Thread: Anyone know how much for a full transmission fluid flush?

Hi,

I've recycled my tranny fluid while doing a job to save a bit of $ and believe it's contaminated due to rough shifting. There's enough in it, but now a normal fluid change would be pointless since it's already mixed in the torque converter. It's a 2000 grand prix SE 4t65e transmission. I'm thinking about Firestone, or biting the bullet for precision at the GM dealer. Any info on this would be great. Thanks!

Older 4t65e's don't seem to like being flushed, many horror stories about folks losing trans shortly after a flush.
I would just do a normal fluid drop and use fresh fluid/filter, keep an eye on it after that and see what it's like after you've driven it long enough for whats in the TC to mix in.

It's shifting bad though, only 1st to 2nd. 2nd to 3rd seems fine, although late. I didn't have the balls to try 3rd to 4th in it's condition. It's also throwing a TCC Circuit Stuck on code (# P0742). I'm assuming it's bad tranny fluid because I just replace the TCC solenoid, both shift solenoids, and the harness. They all literally have less than 10 miles on them. I used a fine screen when pouring the recycled tranny fluid back in (which was brand new fluid I purchased a week before), but the screen got so dirty it came to a drip when pouring at one point. So I can only imagine what the screen didn't catch.

Out of curiosity, can you elaborate on 4T65E's not responding well to flushes?

Originally Posted by JoePro424

It's shifting bad though, only 1st to 2nd. 2nd to 3rd seems fine, although late. I didn't have the balls to try 3rd to 4th in it's condition. It's also throwing a TCC Circuit Stuck on code (# P0742). I'm assuming it's bad tranny fluid because I just replace the TCC solenoid, both shift solenoids, and the harness. They all literally have less than 10 miles on them. I used a fine screen when pouring the recycled tranny fluid back in (which was brand new fluid I purchased a week before), but the screen got so dirty it came to a drip when pouring at one point. So I can only imagine what the screen didn't catch.

Out of curiosity, can you elaborate on 4T65E's not responding well to flushes?

Ever think the solenoids you just bought could be defective? Also just for ease of mind, look for a wiring schematic because a fuse or 2 controls the solenoids

You could first assume one or of the parts you just replaced is defective as stated above. Also, check those fuses as stated above.

Sounds like you are short on cash so I'm not sure how practical this is but ... to improve your current situation install a shift kit and a transmission cooler. During that process you will have to replace a significant amount of your current transmission fluid and replacing the filter would be a good idea.

Similar to what bill said, some have found that completely flushing the system causes an unexpected result. Transmission was "ok" before but then after a flush it starts slipping or acting up. Based on what I've read it could be related to a worn transmission relying on the "contaminated" transmission fluid which would contain a lot of clutch material etc. Once you flush that all out with super slippery new fluid and all that clutch and other material is gone, the underlying problem is exposed.

A shift kit will help shorten your shift times and a cooler will help prevent further heat damage. Some say the shift kit is a bandaid fix but it sounds like it has been a long term solution for some people who were experiencing problems. Good Luck!

Okay, thanks guys. I will be purchasing a shift kit this weekend. As for the fluid change, I read on the shift kit write up on here to use Dex 3 for pre 06 transmissions. Should I go with that ? Mix it with the Dex 6 that's in the TC?

Just to clarify the issue I have, it runs great for the first 5 minutes. As soon as that TCC code hits then it shifts crazy, and it seems to be happening to all gears. It's also throwing a "P1810" code, transmission fluid pressure switch manifold circuit malfunction. I think it's a wiring issue. Would dirty fluid or a clogged filter cause this? I hope I didn't order a faulty harness. I will double check the plug wires. Anyone with any knowledge on this please help out. Thanks

Sounds alot like the pressure control solenoid

Wouldn't the pressure control solenoid throw its own code? P0748

Well guys, may have found my problem. This is for trusting the people at O'riellys to get me the correct part. They gave a TCC solenoid that is for a 4T60E transmission. Pioneer Part #771060, I needed Part #771061

I read somewhere that they are identical but if the wrong solenoid is installed in a 4t65e it will throw this code and cause rough shifting.
IF I AM WRONG PLEASE LET ME KNOW
Looks like I'm taking my side cover off.... Again... At least I'll get my money back. I won't do it until I get the shift kit.
I took the side cover off so many times I'm thinking of doing a write up on it. Will keep you guys posted.

Originally Posted by JoePro424

Well guys, may have found my problem. This is for trusting the people at O'riellys to get me the correct part. They gave a TCC solenoid that is for a 4T60E transmission. Pioneer Part #771060, I needed Part #771061

I read somewhere that they are identical but if the wrong solenoid is installed in a 4t65e it will throw this code and cause rough shifting.
IF I AM WRONG PLEASE LET ME KNOW
Looks like I'm taking my side cover off.... Again... At least I'll get my money back. I won't do it until I get the shift kit.
I took the side cover off so many times I'm thinking of doing a write up on it. Will keep you guys posted.

Yes do a write-up

Oh, I wasn't aware there was already a write-up

Update:
i replaced the TCC solenoid with the AC Delco OEM ($15 vs $42 at O'riellys generic) and the pressure switch manifold in the side cover, installed the 1-2 and 2-3 shift kit from transgo, and changed the fluid with new Dex 3. I also got my money back at O'riellys for selling me the wrong part . I put about 20 miles on it so far and no check engine light or weird shifts. That shift kit is amazing. It runs great. That much closer to getting this car 100%

thanks for the advice guys