Well it's been a while since I have posted. The last time some of you may heard from me is my posting about my A/C Compressor breaking. Well, I am about to get that fixed this Friday, $800 for the total job (without tax). I hope my AC is back!

There are 2 slight other things worrying me, and I already talked to a mechanic. I told him how sometimes in the mornings, when I would put my car into Reverse, or Reverse to Drive, there would be a little jerk. Also, there sometimes is a delay before it actually initiates the transmission switch, but nothing really noticeable. There is also the occasional hard shift from 1st to 2nd, especially when going up a hill, but I suppose this is normal as I feel it in other cars. Also, sometimes there are vibrations at a stop light and when driving high RPM in between gear change. The mechanic said these were probably minor issues, such as needing more transmission fluid and a motor mount being replaced, and that the major issue I have is the AC Compressor.

So I took it to the Dealership and they of course wanted me to pay $100 for a full inspection. I told them how I am about to get my AC Compressor fixed and didn't want any hidden major problems... but no compassion for me and they stuck with their $100. I also asked them to check transmission fluid for me, but she just looked at the last time I had it serviced, which was 20,000 miles ago (due for every 40,000 miles).

So I know it is impossible for you guys to tell me over the net, but I was wondering if these things I described were of any major issue. There is a transmission shop up the road that does free inspections, and I believe I'll take it there tomorrow.

Thanks!

EDIT: I just dropped it off at the Transmission place and told him the deal. He asked what I was afraid about, and I told him about the slight jerk and hesitation in gear when going up a hill, and he said both are normal. I kind of laughed it off, and he said he'll still take a look for me. I'm real happy to hear that, though! I should have the car back either by closing time today or tomorrow morning!

 

The transmission man said that my transmission is great!! He said the vibrations seem to be coming from a "harmonic balancer" and referred me to a mechanic. I drove over and he said he'd look at it if I kept the car with him and only for $45. Not bad.

Doing some research it looks like the harmonic balancers are on recall. Furthermore, I asked the mechanic if this was a huge issue, and he said not really, but not to ignore it forever. So I'm going to go ahead and get my A/C fixed and then think about what to do with the balancer. Seems my car is better than I expected!!

Thanks!!