bbells

I wish I could remember how my 92 behaved to compare, I seem to remember I usually left the overdrive off when in hilly or windy conditions at 50-55 mph, but can't remember why. Getting old I guess!
Anyways, whenever I hit a slight incline or headwind when the outside temp is above 40 degrees or so, the transmission shifts in and out of overdrive ( or 200-300 rpms if it is something other than overdrive) almost constantly until the situation changes (levels out, turn out of the wind, speed up, etc.)
Is this normal with our nice little underpowered pathfinders? Or, is this something I should get checked out? Would it help to change to a good synthetic atf like amsoil? It doesn't do it when the overdrive is off of course. Thanks for any input.

bbells

Well, I guess I can answer it myself now. The 200-300 rpms are the key. It means the torque converter is being switched on and off. So, it is either the transmission temperature sensor or the torque converter solenoid. Since it is temperature sensitive I vote for the sensor. Nissan suggests replacing both the sensor and the solenoid as long as they have the transmission open - Costs a few dollars more, but I hear the solenoid goes out quite often after 100k anyways. I debated on having an aftermarket company do it but having owned a Saab and hearing the horror stories about Pathfinders and aftermarket transmission service companies, I think this is something I will have Nissan do.

bbells

I feel like I am talking to myself.
This is important. If you feel anything wrong with your auto transmission, hard shifting, shifting back and forth, etc., replace your transmission temperature sensor. I can barely feel my truck shift now and the torque converter has stopped going on and off. I am sure this will improve my mileage. Don't get it done at Nissan, though. Cost me $600. It is 1/2 that elsewhere.

TheCROW163

Thanks for the info
I appreciate it.

laxman0324

Your right about the torque converter...ive never had a vehicle behave this way but as long as its normal i dont mind...good info on the tranny temp sensor

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rickdb1

Sorry to resurrect an old subject, but my 96' Pathfinder is now starting the shifting in and out at highway speeds, just like it is described above. Can anyone tell me where the transmission Temp Sensor is located and if this would be a do it yourself job? I've done most of the work on it so far, but the trans is new territory to me. Also, what might the cost be to have someone else do it? Thanks for any help...

Rick