My 97 Accord EX wagon, 165k miles; The transmission upshifts late. Even when I am not on the accelerator hard, like driving through the neighborhood, the shift from 1-2 and 2-3 are pretty late, high rpm.

I have changed the fluid in the pan three times in the last month ( W/Honda fluid), but no change.

No CEL;s. Could this be the shift solenoids? Is there an adjustment?

 

There is a transmission throttle cable linkage that is adjustable (at least on 94 and likely on 97 Accord as well). The trans throttle cable linkage should be adjusted so the throttle plate and trans throttle arm begin to move together. This adjustment can have a dramatic effect on shift quality.

Suggest you download a 94-97 Accord manual via Online Manuals links in the DIY forum.

good luck

 

You were right. I found a little extra slack in the accelerator cable. A couple turns of the adjusting nuts at the cable bracket, and the shift points are correct now. Thanks Hondadude. Now I just have to get up the nerve to pull the instrument cluster to change the bulb in the transmission gear D light and one other.