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Hey guys,
I've got a 03 civic lx, ~134000miles
I noticed on my way home today that my car has a hard time shifting into 4th. I can let off the gas and it'll shift most of the time, but even if I can get it into 4th and floor it, it struggles to hit 70mph. I'm not sure if this is an electronics, transmission, or low octane fuel issue or something else.

Also, I noticed a whirring sound after letting off the accelerator at low speeds (under 20mph).

I replaced the O2 sensor myself about a month ago, I don't think that has anything to do with it though. Transmission fluid was changed at just under 100Kmiles.

Any wisdom you guys might be able to share would be more than appreciated.

 
Rep Power: 517

Anything that causes the engine to lack proper power could show up as your complaint. A lack of power would cause you to push the gas pedal farther than normal to maintain speed, and that would keep the trans from upshifting. The trans should not stay in 4th gear if you floor it.

Anything from....a transmission problem- to timing belt jumped- to misfiring- to clogged exhaust- to dragging brakes- to flat tires- to dragging a trailer---- to a 60 MPH headwind....
Go to a reputable shop if you can't figure this out.


CEL on? Got codes?

 
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Its a 4speed Automatic. I don't have access to a code reader at the moment and the one I can use isn't really that great.

I just want to basically be confident enough that I can make it to work and to a shop tomorrow.

Would it be possible for the subs in my trunk to be drawing so much power that it would have trouble shifting??

 
Rep Power: 517

Doubt it. Disconnect the battery feed wire and see.



I try to never say impossible. Someone will figure out how to prove me wrong!

 
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Also, doubt it.

If the audio were somehow drawing so much power that the alternator couldn't keep up I imagine the battery light would turn on.

 
Rep Power: 517

I don't think the light would turn on as long as the alt was charging, no matter if it were maxed out or not.
The light should only come on when the alt quits charging.

I'll have to check this theory by loading one with a VAT tester sometime.

 
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looks like its a combination of a clogged cat converter, worn clutch, and slightly burned trans fluid.