Hey everyone, i just bought a 98 Accord Lx, 4 cyl automatic, 158k miles. I've been having somewhat of an issue with the transmission. It shifts kind of hard up into 2nd gear from 1st, and also down from 3rd. I've read a bit about the recalls on this gen Accord's automatics, and I'm thinking mine's on its way out.

So far, I've looked at and tested shift solenoid C, finding the screen on it to be perfectly clean, and the solenoid itself functioning properly. I've not checked the other solenoids. The fluid was red and very clean when i drained it, though the magnet on the drain plug was really dirty. I'm also hearing a weird clicking and clunking sound when i go from D4 to R and R to D4.

I've started a drain and fill flush with genuine honda DW-1, and have installed a Raybestos magnetic filter on the return line during my last 3 qt drain and fill (this one would be the 2nd D&F, i plan to do 2 more). I noticed the day after the filter installation, that my trans fluid is a little lower than usual, like halfway up the cross hatches on the dipstick, instead of at the top like it's been since i got it. I'm pretty sure there's no leak, but I'm keeping an eye out.

So, basically, nothing that I'm seeing on this transmission is indicating to me that it's going bad, at least according to the things I've been reading on the internet. I'm not well versed in mechanics by any means, so I'm here looking for some guidance. I've got no check engine light and D4 doesn't flash, so all I've got to go on is the transmission's behavior and sounds. What can i do going forward to keep this car running for as long as possible? How long do you guys think I'll have before it ***** the bed? What else do you guys think could cause this behavior? I know there's probably a ton of threads on here about this problem but honestly, I'm kind of perplexed by the juxtaposition of the transmission's behavior and the condition of the fluid and solenoid c. Thanks for any help you guys can give.

tl;dr: auto tranny is acting up, fluid looks good, no CELs or flashing D4, solenoid c looks perfect.

 

You cannot rely on the CEL or D4 lamp, you may use a scanner to retrieve codes(best) or you may be able to jumper the OBDII connector located near the hood latch release lever. I believe terminals 9 and 4 can be jumpered to trigger OBD codes. Do not jumper 16.
I believe the code is either (D4 light) 25 or 26 for the pressure switches.
With the ATs in the 6th gen there may be codes but the CEL/D4 will not be illuminated.
With the hard shifting, albeit the 2nd gear pressure switch is probably faulty or leaking. That sensor is located screwed into the bellhousing(horizontally) of the transmission under the thermostat housing/distributor. You will have to remove a metal stay that may be blocking you ability to remove or view the sensors.
Transmission functionality is greatly affected by the engines running condition.

As for the R to D or D to R clunk, check your front engine mount. It may be hard to inspect with the engine bracket on. The front mount is a limiter, not really a mount per se. You can remove the engine to mount bracket and inspect the mount itself. If the rubber is torn or the mount is broken, replace it. If that mount is busted the rear mount(firewall side) may also be worn out or not functioning(its a hydro mount controlled via vacuum). Check both.

 

I had same problems on sis 2002 4 cyl accord.
Dealer said rebuilt trans for 5k
I had atf flushed. No effect. Slipping on 1to2 and 2to3. Loud thunk on up 1to2 and down 2to1. Changed the tcc solenoid (2 headed) filter screen was dirty but that made no difference. Had all mounts inspected. Some were bad so they were replaced. Loud thunk on down shift disappeared. Slipping on 1to2 and 2to3 remained. Did a drain and fill with atf type f since it has no slippery additives. That helps a little to no help. Did not make it worse that is for sure. So just this week i changed 2 separate shift solenoids in the front. They are mounted next to each other. Shift solenoid b and c. They look identical but the electrical connector on one is brown and the other is black. The screens were remarkably clean to my surprise on these old solenoids. Still the new solenoids have eliminated the 2to3 slip. I only have 1to2 slip on upshift left when i accelerate hard. On slow accel there is no noticible slip . I am trying lucas atf treatment next to see what happens.