Hi all,
I have a 2003 Montero Limited with 60K miles. Occasionally, when I first start up in the morning, to back out of the garage, I put in reverse but it feels like there is very little power to move. Increasing rpm helps but only marginally. Doesn't happen when engine is at temperature, nor does it happen every time the engine is cold. Usually subsides after 10-15 seconds. Not low on trans fluid.
Is this indicating a developing problem? or, is it simply getting fluid to circulate after sitting for a while?
Thanks in advance for any advice!

 

Is the transmission slipping -ex. RPM's increasing with no movement?

Have you had the transmission fluid flushed or drained/filledwith 60K on the clock? Under the severe schedule this should be done every 30K miles...

If this has been done, was the correct fluid used?

 

This is the only time I experience "transmission slipping" symptom - in reverse backing out of the garage. Otherwise, shifting and driving is just fine. It only occurs first thing when it is cold.
I have had severe maintenance schedule done religiously, by the dealer (I have a service plan), and I am due for the 60K, but this has been going on intermittently for 15K or so miles. I know that the transmission fluid was serviced as scheduled. I would assume (carefully, I know) that the correct fluid was used, as it was done at a Mitsu service facility, as has all of my other service (love that service plan!).

Oh, and I have not found any leaks, just in case it was a question.

 

Have you used the 4WD recently? Occasionally I shift into hi or lo on my final mile to my house, to circulate the gears. The following morning, my 03 Montero Sport will do what you describing, back out slowly. Although I shift back into AWD prior to shutting down, seems something settles, but clears itself after a morning commute. The slow backout is more amplified if its cold out.

 

Now that you mention it, I haven't used 4WD in a few months (Florida driving really doesn't require it). I should do that every so often.
I'll see if it is worse if it sits for a few days, with the holiday here. Then I'll try the 4WD maneuver and try to see if it has any effect.
Thanks for the suggestion!

 

Turkey's all gone.
4WD had no effect.
However, I had it backed in the garage, and after two days, started out going forward, and it was a bit slow in getting going, same as if it were in reverse. Rechecked ATF level, all okay. I figure I'll do an ATF change and see if that does it...

 

could it be a solenoid valve is sticking and not fully engage the gear?
if this is the cause,flusing the ATF might help.
or it might be the solenoid valve itself.

 

Oil change done twice, ATF changed. No difference. Still is slow getting moving, just as before. I'm wondering if it is justa quirk with the vehicle. Once the engine idles for about 15 seconds, all works just fine, as if there is some fluid that takes time getting where it needs to. Hmmm...[>:]