2002 Chevy Impala Engine Stutters - Transmission Downshift

2002 CHEVROLET IMPALA
262,351 MILES • 6 CYL • FWD • AUTOMATIC
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SHANNONBRU
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My 2002 Chevy Impala is not doing so well as of late. It is a high mileage vehicle (262,000+ Miles), but I am fanatic about maintenance. The engine has recently started stuttering at 35 mph, 45mph, and this morning, even 65mph. It seems to shake like it is trying to down shift, but cannot quite do it. When I step into the gas, the transmission downshift, and the car gets up and goes. But if I am on cruise control at 65 mph, and start going up an incline, the car will shimmer, the tach shows the RPM's jumping between 1500 and 2000, and I can get it to stop by stepping on the gas. I've had catalytic converter replaced (a few times now). Not sure if my issue is engine or transmission related. Any thoughts?
Apr 27, 2010 at 6:17 AM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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This sounds more engine releated than transmission. Have you checked the fuel pump pressure? Has the check engine light come on? When was the fuel filter replaced last?
May 1, 2010 at 1:35 PM
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SHANNONBRU
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Sorry for the delayed response. In this case, no news is NOT good news. On the way home, I lost 2nd and 3rd gear. So, unfortunately, it is transmission related. :(

Thank you for your response, as I would have been happier with a fuel filter or fuel pump issue...
May 4, 2010 at 11:54 AM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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That isn't good news. I was hoping it wasn't as involved. If that is the original transmission, there is no shame in its replacement. Still, before having replaced, ask a qualified trans tech to check the TCM to make sure the problem isn't related to the electrical system. Maybe you'll get lucky that way.

Regardless, let me know if you have other questions and what you find.

Joe
May 4, 2010 at 12:10 PM