I own four years now this 1997 Camry V6, very smooth running car. Today after 20 miles driving, when doing 25 mph, suddenly there was no traction anymore (no strange noises or jerking or warning light). After parking I did select Reverse, P, Drive etc. , still no traction. Then I restarted the engine, selected Reverse and there was at once very little traction over 1500 rpm; then moved the lever to Drive and again to Reverse and both cases no traction anymore... Automatic transmission oil level and color were OK and no burning smell. The car was towed to the local Toyota dealer, who told me later today they concluded severe mechanical damage to the transmission, only solution in their opinion is to exchange that transmission ($$$$).
Questions:
- What parts can be damaged?
- Is exchange of that transmission indeed the (only) solution or?
- If so, how many hours of labour can they charge me in that case?
In my opinion this failure seems very exceptional to happen.
Thanks and regards from the Netherlands.