transmission

[maherbaz]

Hey all-
I recently got a 97 sport auto, and I haven't been driving it long. I've noticed that until the car fully warms up (about 3-5 mins) the transmission shifts much later that it normally does. After the temp guage is straight up, it shifts like butter. Is this normal? Do other people w/ autos experience this?
Also, I have heard that the tranny fluid is designed to last the life of the car, but I have also heard that it should be checked regularly and changed when needed. Which is right? I looked for a dipstick, but I could not find one. Is there an easy way to check it without removing the pan?
Thanks to anyone who has any advice-
Maherbaz

[maherbaz]

nobody?

[mickd]

I don't have an auto but remember seeing some posts about the same symptoms you have. I did a search and found this thread, it appears the cold shifting problem is normal http://www.318ti.org/forum/showthread.php?t=5170&highlight=automatic+shifting

[maherbaz]

Awesome man, thanks. I guess leaving "transmission" out of the search string was the best way to find info about a....wait......transmission. Haha, good job finding that thread and thanks again.

[mickd]

You're welcome, glad I could help. It's good to know when these little quirks are normal, they can drive you nuts otherwise.