Overdrive

1994 NISSAN MAXIMA
Avatar
JFAST
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
Transmission problem 6 cyl Front Wheel Drive Automatic 150000 miles

I recently replaced the tranny in my '94 Maxima. The two trannys were an EXACT match. However the replacement tranny will not shift into overdrive under any circumstances. It was shifting fine when it came out of the donar car. The O/D light goes on when I hit the button. All fuses are good. Electrical conections at the tranny seem to be clean and tight.

I replaced the old tranny because it was really slipping and the fluid looked like chococlate milk, but it would slip into O/D when I could get it up to speed.

Any ideas? Thanks
May 2, 2010 at 10:26 PM
Advertisement
Avatar
KHLOW2008
  • CERTIFIED EXPERT
  • 41,814 POSTS
Hi Jfast,

Thank you for the donation.

Possible causes for OD not working are :

Inhibitor switch or control linkage misadjusted

No revolution sensor, speed sensor or fluid
temperature sensor signal.

Damaged overdrive switch, shift solenoid "A" or brake band.

© 2008 Mitchell Repair Information Co., LLC.

Since wire couplers seems tight, disconnect the connectors and recheck if any of the pins are bent to ensure it is not the cause.

Sometimes trans controls valves might stick for a while after installation due to storage and would clear out with a little driving. Ensure the trans fluid level is correct.
May 3, 2010 at 11:18 AM
Avatar
REBECCA ALFORD
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
Thank you I have a similar issue
Jan 19, 2017 at 6:02 PM
Advertisement
Avatar
STRAILER
  • CERTIFIED EXPERT
  • 53,854 POSTS
Hey REBECCA,

I would replace the thermostat because if it is stuck open the computer will not go into closed loop so it wont go into overdrive.

Here is a guide to help you out.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/replace-thermostat

Please let us know what happens so it will help others

Best, Ken
Jan 22, 2017 at 9:55 AM
Avatar
THEBILLY85
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
I have a similar problem my car has 270xxx and every once and a while it will not shift in to od at about 45 to 55 mph. It drives just fine most of the time the check engine light comes on and off randomly and will make the cooling fans run. Maybe someone can point me in the right direction. thanks
Feb 14, 2018 at 10:08 PM
Avatar
STRAILER
  • CERTIFIED EXPERT
  • 53,854 POSTS
Yep it sounds like you have a transmission shaft speed sensor that is going out the check engine light is the clue lets run the codes to confirm the issue.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/checking-a-service-engine-soon-or-check-engine-light-on-or-flashing

Please let us know what you find. We are interested to see what it is.

Cheers, Ken
Feb 15, 2018 at 10:33 AM
Avatar
THEBILLY85
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
Thanks for the info I'll do that and let y'all know what I find
Feb 15, 2018 at 7:48 PM