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linablade79

Suzuki Carry Trans Failure Signs at 196K, Owner Seeks Help

Hey! My automatic transmission is acting up badly. The gearbox seems confused when shifting, the transmission warning light is on, and it went into limp mode. Shifts feel rough and unpredictable. Running a 2019 Suzuki Carry with around 196000km on the clock. Pretty sure the transmission fluid needs changing, but after a bad experience with my last mechanic, I want to hear your thoughts before taking it in somewhere. Has anyone dealt with similar transmission problems? What was the actual issue and how much did the repair cost? Any red flags I should watch for when talking to mechanics about this? Thanks in advance for your help.

4 comment(s)

rainerklein1

Had nearly identical symptoms on my 2016 Suzuki Swift. The automatic gearbox was showing similar behavior, erratic shifting, warning lights, and limp mode activation. Initially thought it was just a transmission fluid issue. Diagnostic testing revealed an undervoltage problem affecting the transmission control module. The slipping transmission symptoms were actually caused by electrical issues, not hydraulic fluid problems. The automatic transmission control unit wasnt getting proper voltage, causing irregular shift patterns. The fix required: Full system voltage check, Replacement of faulty alternator, Repair of corroded ground connections, Reset of transmission control module This was a serious electrical issue that could have damaged the transmission if left unaddressed. When talking to mechanics, request them to check the electrical system before assuming its just a fluid problem. Make sure they: 1. Test battery voltage under load 2. Check alternator output 3. Inspect all ground points 4. Scan for transmission-specific fault codes While transmission fluid service is good maintenance, your symptoms match electrical problems more than fluid degradation. Get a complete diagnosis before authorizing any work.

linablade79 (Author)

Thanks for sharing your Swift experience! My Suzuki Carry had very similar transmission troubles last year. The automatic gearbox symptoms matched yours exactly. My mechanic found it was actually a combination of old transmission fluid and a failing solenoid. The transmission flush helped, but the solenoid replacement was what really fixed the erratic shifting. How much did your electrical repairs end up costing? And has your transmission been shifting smoothly since the fix? Just wondering if you had any other issues pop up afterward. Having dealt with slipping transmission problems before, its always good to know what to expect long-term.

rainerklein1

After getting everything sorted with the electrical system, my automatic transmission has been working perfectly for the past 8 months. The total repair cost came to 240€, which covered diagnosing and fixing the undervoltage issues. This was actually less expensive than I initially feared when the transmission problems first appeared. The mechanic did a thorough job checking all electrical connections and the transmission control module. Since the repair, the gearbox shifts smoothly with no warning lights or limp mode episodes. Having the proper voltage restored to the system made a huge difference in transmission performance. While your case involved a solenoid and transmission fluid issues, mine was purely electrical. Its interesting how similar symptoms can stem from different root causes. Regular transmission maintenance and keeping an eye on the electrical system definitely helps prevent these problems from recurring.

linablade79 (Author)

Got my Carry back from the shop yesterday. Really glad I asked here first. My transmission problems turned out different from yours, an old clogged transmission filter was the culprit. The mechanic did a complete transmission flush, replaced the filter, and put in fresh transmission oil. The whole job cost 380€. Much better than the 1200€ quote I got from that sketchy shop last month who wanted to rebuild the entire gearbox. The transmission performance is way better now. Shifts are smooth, no more warning lights, and the limp mode issue is gone. The mechanic showed me the old filter, it was completely packed with metal bits and gunk. Good call on getting a proper diagnosis first. Saved me from an unnecessary transmission rebuild and caught the real issue before it got worse.

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