I noticed that when I put the car in drive to leave a parking spot that it doesn't seem to "catch" in first gear, even if I give it plenty of gas the engine revs to about 2000 rpm then once I let off the gas it will catch then accelerate smoothly. Once at 20+mph the problem is non-existent and it shifts very smoothly.

To other owners, has anyone ever encountered this problem? My car has high mileage - about 200K but it has no other problems that I'm aware of.

 

What year is yours? Type IV is easily serviced where the WS involves a bit more. Type IV without service tend to die in the 160-200K range. Various discussions for fluid maintenance and also some in the FAQ.

 

Sorry, I own a 2002 LS430 with 205k miles on it. I read a few threads about transmission fluid flushes along with transmission mounts helping so I'd be overjoyed if I can get away with just those being done. Luckily I do see several lightly used transmission units on ebay for ~600 shipped.

I JUST noticed the issue this morning, it happens either cold or warmed up.

 

Well I'd have to check, I don't really accelerate that hard typically when I'm in reverse.

What would my answer imply? If it happens in reverse as well it might be the fluid/mounts? Or if it does happen in reverse its the tranny itself?

Thanks so much for y'alls help!

 

Mine is 2002 with 180k miles, started to have a delay shifting into reverse, then after a few weeks it started to get worse and would delay some upshifts too. Generally just started shifting funny. A dealer and two independent shops confirmed the transmission was failing and needed replacement, even though I've been very good with regular fluid changes. Got a used unit with 71k from LKQ on ebay for $700 shipped to my shop. Problem fixed.

 

Not bad at all! What did the labor run you?