Transmission light just came on

[capncash]

I have a 1994 Q45 with close to 200k. The transmission light just came on. I have not noticed that the transmission is slipping or anything. What does this light usually indicate?

[maxnix]

OBD I is stupid so it is probably not good.

When's the last time the transmission fluid was mechanically exchanged? Transmission filters? Do you have an auxiliary ATF cooler?

Any other driveline maintenance history?

[capncash]

I dont know except the previous original owner said it was always changed on schedule. The fluid looks nice and red. It isnt on when I start the car but sometimes after driving around it comes on.

[maxnix]

Why not start with a mechanical fluid exchange?

http://www.bgfindashop.com

Get the gasket, crush washer, one-time use bolts and filter from Joe.

http://www.infinitipartsusa.com

[Rex]

It's also worthwhile to look at the battery and alt.

[qship96]

and dont forget the most neglected q45 filter of all...... the external canister behind the radiator that filters the transmission fluid

[Jesda]

When the transmission actually fails, it doesn't actually show a transmission malfunction message [Nissan trying to be high tech without the technology to do it]. As suggested above, check out the fuel system and electrical system. Check your ATF level for the hell of it.

[Q45tech]

The Display shows electrical malfunctions [codes] ........for mechanical or positional or pressure problems you must test further.

Pretty much the same as today's transmissions.

[maxnix]

........for mechanical or positional or pressure problems you must test further.

If you use the BG machine, you can time the flush for a cheap diagnostic of the condition of your pump. Read Q45tech's posts for more details.

[qsiguy]

Ok is it just me or are we talking about the CHECK ENGINE light. I'm not aware of any "transmission" light on the '94 Q45. The engine light sort of looks like a transmission...

[capncash]

maybe it is the check engine light. i thought it was the picture of a transmission with a yellow light that came on above it?

[qsiguy]

No, that is the check engine light. You can check what the code is with a consult cable/laptop, a real consult (mostly the dealers have them), or you can drop down the ECU in the passenger kick panel and on the back of it (opposite the harness connector) there is a red LED and a potentiometer. Turn the pot clockwise about 1/2 turn til it stops, wait 2-3 seconds, then turn it back til it stops. It will flash a sequence which indicates what the code of.