I have a 1999 Lexus ES 300 with 145k miles. Tonight, on the highway, it started slipping into neutral. The dash still showed "D" but there was no power. After 5-10 seconds, it would re-engage. It did this all the way home. I plan to take it in tomorrow but wanted to see if anyone had experience with this. Am I looking at a new transmission? Or just drain and re-fill? Or maybe something else?

Thanks

 

Did you check your transmission fluid level to make sure it's not low?

What about color and odor? Are they normal?

No check engine light?

Phil

 

I think the level is fine. The dipstick was wet up to between the cold and hot line (I just went out and started it). The color is reddish and it doesn't smell burnt. The check engine light is on but has been for some time (so I need to take it in anyways).

I'm also getting some rough idling that I didn't notice earlier. It was pretty bad just now when I started it.

 

I am not convinced that you checked the level correctly. Make sure that you check your transmission fluid AFTER you've driven it a while and the engine is at normal operating temperature. The engine has to be running while you're checking it. Car in Park, and on level ground.

Next, get the code read. Could be related to your transmission issue. Autozone will do it for free

Phil

 

Thanks Phil. I'll have that done tomorrow.