Hi Guys! I have a 2002 T4R Limited 4WD with 283,000 miles on it. I did a transmission fluid and engine oil analysis a year ago with Blackstone Labs and the engine oil analysis came back clean - no signs of excessive engine wear but the transmission fluid analysis said there was excessive signs of wear to the point it might already be slipping.

The trans finally started slipping about 2 weeks ago and the truck went into "limp mode" - meaning I can't get the RPM above 1500 RPMs - but the Check Engine Light is not throwing any codes. If the Transmission is slipping shouldn't there be a transmission related CEL code?

Thank you all in advance.

Your trans slipping isn't necessarily going to generate a CEL code. Regardless, you're due for a rebuilt or used transmission.

The 2001-2002 model years have a more sophisticated electronically controlled transmission than older years. The only thing that can cause the transmission to slip is the transmission itself, and I include the torque converter as part of it. It is most definitely the transmission failing and I believe the weak point for the 2002 year is the planetary gear.

At this point, regardless of codes, I think you should get a second opinion by a trusted shop and then look into replacing the transmission. Used is the least expensive route (which I completed in my garage in October) but the most risk as I might find myself doing it again in the near future. The cost of a rebuild isn't worth it in my opinion though and Toyota doesn't sell transmissions new for 1998 4WD models. It would be worth checking to see if they still sell remanufactured or new transmissions for your model year and drivetrain.

01-02 Trans have been discontinued Reman or new at dealer.

I didn't realize a transmission issue could put the vehicle in "limp mode".
Have you checked for codes with an OBDII reader?

That's a shame. The fact that they are no longer offered means there will be many 4Runners sent to the junkyards due to the cost of transmissions shops. Many charge $4,000+ for a transmission rebuild.

Yota1 out of Riverbank, CA can build one for $2650 +400 for core. Mine now has about 1500 miles and it purrs like a kitten.

Problem for most will be shipping. Then it gets worse when you want to get the core money back, they will charge shipping against that money, yet if nearby it is very much a way to go. Luck all.

Yota1 Performance Engine & Machine - Your Toyota needs all in one place!

Glad we have a few good transmission rebuilders...;)

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Yes it is though it could be a boon for those with skills, let's hope they hit the market.

Thanks guys for all the feedback

Yes I checked codes with reader, I found out about "limp mode" by reading other posts on here. This site is fantastic!

Was surfing Amayama last night, yahoo, I can get a new Trans for my 01.





$5500.00 $1k shipping.

For the standard OBDII DTC set incorrect gear ratio for “X” gear would be produced if say 3rd gear clutch pack was slipping.

The TC I don’t think has a slipping code.

However, it’s a lot of work replacing the TC just to see if it’s the cause with that many miles on it.


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