'91 Q45 Transmission shudder

[mastahblastah]

Hi, new to this forum so bear with me. I have a '91 Q45 daily driver, 270k+ mi. transmission has a shudder between mid gears that improves as it worme up. Any concern here? What's the most likely cause/fix?

[maxnix]

How about some maintenance history?

Last mechanical ATF exchange? ATF cooler? ATF fluid brand? Exchange frequency? Intake and fuel system maintenance history?

[Q45tech]

The real question is this transmission number 2 or #3. Almost all 91 failed early in warranty and had a replacement.

I have never seen a replacement [of 91-93 era] last 200,000 miles without rigorous mainteance and frequent flushes, filter changes, etc. But WA might be a milder stress climate than ATL?

I got 180k on my first replacement [@55k] and currently have 100k on #3.

Transmissions are wear items and rarely last 10 years.

[goody90q45]

I have a '91 Q45 daily driver, 270k+ mi. transmission has a shudder between mid gears that improves as it warms up. Any concern here? What's the most likely cause/fix?

Welcome to NICO. We do need some more maintenance history on your Q before making a guess. Is this the original transmission or a replacement? It could be something as simple as needing a flush and filter change (clogged internals) to an ailing torque converter.

I had the dreaded transmission shudder in the 90Q I sold a couple of months ago. It happened right before shifting at about 35mph (sometimes), 45mph and 55mph on flat roads and inclines, never on the downhill. I attributed it to an ailing torque converter from a transmission that started in 2nd gear all its life (for smooth acceleration from a stop) rather than the conventional 1st gear (jack rabbit) start.

I was able to minimize the shudder initially with Lucas Transmission Treatment and later with a flush and filter change. Depending on your mileage a new transmission mount and exhaust hangers would also cut down on the vibration. In my case the transmission shifted great in all gears so the shudder was more of an annoyance and not a must fix item.

[mastahblastah]

Thanks for the reply. This is the original Trans, and I have to admit It is propably in need of a fluid change and flush. I have had no other trans problems, though ZI did have to change out the rear end pumpkin about 2 years ago. the only other major issue was an alternator that quit during a homebound commute. I had a Nissan (INfiniti trained) mech check out the drive train at that time, he did not report any findings with the trans. So I'll go for a flush and filter to see if that cures the shudder. Thx again.

[qship96]

Are you the original owner of the car? How often have you replaced trans fluid/filter?

[maxnix]

But WA might be a milder stress climate than ATL?

Climate on West side of Cascades mild, but topography is tough.