Gday guys,

Have a bit of an problem with the ex's 2003 TL. She ran out of petrol, again, last night (fuel gauge doesnt work). She stopped at a roundabout and it cut out. I went and pushed it to a nearby servo (250m) where we put some fuel in and it started ok. But now it wont move: putting it into drive or reverse does nothing. The engine revs like its in neutral. When selecting drive the revs increase slightly, instead of dropping. I've done a lot of searching the forum and suspect its the tranny pump. I've disconnected the battery to reset the computer to no avail.
All seems a bit odd. It was fine before it stopped because of the fuel. Could it be anything else?

cheers

Remove one of the 2 fluid lines for the trans cooler, have someone start car and see if fluid is pumped out of the line, if not then the oil pump in the trans has died

Thank you for the info.
Unfortunately, yes the pump has died.
That was unexpected and really bad timing. I have been quoted $2800 (o_O) for a full rebuild which we wont be doing. I will look for a second hand one. Am i right in thinking that i will have to have a box from a similar TL 2003 or later, not earlier? I have also been told their is a 5 speed auto which is a much better proposition. Is it a straight swap or even worth it?
Anyone in Perth have a good auto box for sale?

Look for a 4 speed. Much cheaper and easier to obtain. Some modifications are needed for a 5 speed conversion. You will need either a TL or TW box.

thanks Dreggzy

looks like I've found another 2003 TL 4speed. Fingers crossed its a good one. Searching the net is seems Magnas have had enormous problems with transmissions. I had always thought of them as really good well rounded cars. i used to drive a lot of them as hire cars in a previous job. Until they were outclassed by the magnificent 380:-)

It isn't as bad as you might think it is. Yes, transmissions do go, but not much else does.