Brand new here-- thanks for reading. My 99 Accord started throwing the classic Torque Converter Clutch System Failure code (94k miles). I got the transmission fluid changed right away (a mechanic from a local shop and a mechanic that I know personally both suggested this) and my shifts have been WAY smoother, but I'm still nervous so I have a few questions for you all:

1. Have you experienced this and gotten away with NOT replacing your TC and/or full transmission?

2. Is there any class action lawsuit or recall that pertains to my situation? I also hear that contacting Honda and asking about it could actually get me some free repairs because the problem is so common. Has that happened to any of you? Is that realistic?

3. The guys that changed my transmission fluid wouldn't reset my CEL, nor would the guys at O'Reilly's do it. They said it was illegal. I wanted to use the CEL as a way to check if the fluid change was what I needed. If it came back on, then I would know there is a serious trans. problem. If not, I should be good to go. Is that logic effective or am I an idiot??? Any suggestions for getting someone to reset my CEL?

Thanks for any responses! I'm obviously not a mechanic, and I definitely qualify as being in the "need help and advice" category.

Dave

 

By the way, for any who might have been wondering. I reset my CEL and my Accord is smooth sailing. Shifts have been fine. As soon as I changed the fluid it started feeling like '99 again. Don't underestimate the trans fluid change. Turns out my TC is going to last a while longer than expected.

 

What was believed to be the initial problem...
http://www.sonnax.com/publications/c...rter-forensics

What is thought to be the real problem.
http://www.sonnax.com/system/pdfs/35...pdf?1320330979

A temp sensor monitoring the transmission fluid would be great to have.