transmission feels "loose" at low speeds

1999 TOYOTA AVALON
180,000 MILES
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CANDRUS
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I have a high mileage (180,000) Avalon. The transmission was serviced last year when it had about 175,000. At that time I noticed it took a few seconds to engage when I shifted from reverse to drive. The service seemed to help. I took it on a 2000 mile road trip last month. Since the trip I have noticed the transmission seems very loose at slow speeds 3-5 mph. It runs and shifts great when driving regular speed, even 60-70 mph. Is this an immediate problem or could it go on fro a while? I don't drive it much, maybe 5,000 a year. Great car - I'd like to get 2-3 more years out of it but do not want to have major work done.
Aug 9, 2013 at 9:18 AM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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Can you describe what you mean when you say it feels loose? The trans has a lot of miles on it and may be wearing out just from miles and years.
Aug 9, 2013 at 2:15 PM
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CANDRUS
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By loose I mean that is it feels like it's not in gear (drive) at very low speeds. Almost like it's in neutral then the gear engages when I give it gas. Like a loose bicycle chain. I pretty sure it's because of age and mileage. I was wondering if this is normal. Is it likely to get progressively worse or go out all at once?
Aug 9, 2013 at 2:36 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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Based on your description, it sounds like the fluid pressure is low. You may want to have it checked. If I am correct, yes, it will continue to get worse.
Aug 10, 2013 at 7:28 PM