I have a 1996 Nissan maxima that I love owning, driving, and maintaining.
I do not know how many miles are on the car as the odometer was replaced about 6-7 years ago.
It has been at least 35k miles since I had the transmission serviced, so I figure its time to do something.
The only tranny related problem is as follows;
When I first start the car, I shift it into reverse and back it out of the driveway. No Problem. When I put it in drive and gently step on the gas the car does not go anywhere at first. I need to shift in and out of drive and gently accelerate again to get it to move. Once on the road, it is 100% fine. It runs fine and shifts smoothly. When I last had the transmission fluid drained and filled, I used the good synthetic stuff. I check the fluid regularly and the color and level are exactly where they need to be.
Is this an indication that my transmission is on its way out? Any preventative maintenance I can do to extend transmission life at this point?
The car has always been absolutely babied, always been driven VERY gently. VERY, VERY gently.
I have been told that the problem described above might be a linkage problem.
If you have any knowledge of this, please let me know.
I have read that this transmission has a 'valve upgrade' available. Any knowledge on this?
When doing a routine 25k transmission service on this car, what is the best way to go?
Just a drain and fill?
If a 'full flush' is advisable, how do I know the machine the shop uses will have the best kind of fluid in it?
What is the most advisable type of fluid to use to maximize longevity and reliability?
Any adivce on how to make this transmission last forever is greatly appreciated.
Here are pictures of my beloved maxima that I want to last for the rest of my life;