I own 2001 Accord - 4 cyl 2.3 Ltr with Auto transmission. Lately I have noticed on accelerating from stop, 1st to 2nd gear is bit rough - it shifts with a jerk, but after that 3rd & 4th is no problem, it is very smooth. Am I looking for tranny trouble coming in soon? By the way it has 400,000 Km ie 250000 miles on it. My tranny was replaced by Honda under warranty at 133000 Km ie 80000 miles.
Second problem is the HVAC control - it works intermittently. When not working, if I press hard on one or two selector buttons and hold it, it will come on and stay on until car turned off. Looks like some connection issue.
Your reply will be highly appreciated.
M Damania
Toronto - Canada

 

Sometimes a drain/refill w/ new Honda ATF will improve shift quality.

The 1998-2001 Accords were problematic for AT failures, much higher than other generation Accords. You may finally be seeing this problem.

HVAC mode selection (vent outlet selection) lights not staying lit is a common problem. Usually it does not affect AC function. Are you seeing the vent selection change?

Perhaps you are referring to the AC control switch light not staying and AC going off? Please clarify.

good luck

 

Hello,
Thanks for assistance. Regarding transmission, I am only 22000 Km from the last change fluid change (Normal interval is 45000 Km) but I can get it done earlier to see if it improves.
Regarding HVAC - Mode selection Light as well A/C light goes off. If I turn on fan it will run but Air Conditioner is not ON. What I feel is HVAC unit is losing power connection.

 

The mode control system and AC switch light share a common power supply, the dimming circuit. It may be that a fault in the dimmer circuit could interupt power to both. Note, it may be only the AC switch light that is being disabled. The AC switch may be closed and compressor/blower running. Are you losing cooling when lights go off?

If you don't have a wiring diagram, you need a shop manual. Check Online Manuals links in DIY forum or automanualsource.com for an inexpensive download manual.

good luck

 

I had the exact same problem with our '99 Accord. The HVAC lights were intermittent and eventually stopped coming on all together. I replaced the unit with a used one from ebay (~$50) and have had no problems since.

 

Hello,
Thanks for your help.
When this A/C light goes off there is no cooling. At such time mode control light also goes off. I can check getting a used HVAC control board to see if it helps.

I will get the transmission fluid changed in coming weekend and post update after it.

Is it advisable to use additive in Transmission for smooth shifting? Such additives are available at automotive stores.
Again, thanks for help.
Mahendra Damania

 

You may need a new control panel as suggested by Skramer. Some diagnostics should be able to rule out other components.

I would start by replacing the ATF w/ Honda ATF. You can always add the additive later.

good luck