Your check engine light is on in your 1996 Honda accord it has an automatic transmission and wont shift from 1st to 2nd what could be the problem?

Answer 1

I or anyone else would only be guessing. You need to take the vehicle to a professional well yes but i dont want a professional to rip me off so i wanted kind of an idea about what it might be before i go. I understand exactly how you feel. A couple of questions. Have you changed the Transmission Fluid or added fluid lately. You MUST use Honda ATF-Z1 fluid and no other. Use any other fluid and you will have shift problems. Now if you have not used any other fluid, you can take the vehicle and have the fluid and filter changed and see if that helps. Make sure they flush all the fluid out and not just what is in the pan. If you have used any other fluid you need to get it out of your transmission ASAP. Other than this I cannot tell you exactly why the transmission is not shifting properly. I am no transmission expert and it will take an expert to diagnose the problem. You could have a bad TCU (transmission control unit) but that is just an educated guess. To avoid being ripped off, that it to someone you trust. Ask your friends for recommendations. I can tell you where not to take it. Do not take it to any chain operation such as Mr. Transmission or such place. A trusted independent is a much safer choice. Of course your local Honda dealer would be a good choice but it will more than likely cost more but you will know is is repaired correctly and get a warranty.