My outback has a lag when i first shift it into drive. otherwise it seems to work fine. Any ideas?

 

thanks

2000 Outback would be in the "New Generation Forum" but you'll get lots of help here too since it's a basic automatic question.

 

sounds like line pressure issues starting.

 

does the POWER/ATF/Trans light blink when you start the car?

check the ATF level.

change the transmission fluid.

look at the bottom of the transmission and make sure the pan isn't dented.

make sure the ATF lines and cooler (in the side of the radiator) aren't clogged. if they appear fine you may want to install a new radiator or an aftermarket ATF cooler and bypass the questionable radiator side tank. (the aftermarket coolers are only $30 and much cheaper than a radiator.

 

this can be the onset of more serious problems or no big deal, best to check thoroughly now. if everything checks out i'd keep driving and see if it gets worse or stays the same. i've seen subaru's do this for 50,000 miles (off the top of my head) and never get worse or cause problems. now if it's something serious it'll get worse fairly quickly with increasing delays and shifting issues.

Thanks for the help. the tranny fluid has been changed and so has the filter. no A/T light flickering. I'll have the lines checked and the radiator. didn't think about those items. seems to be better after it has been driven awhile. when cold is the longest lag time.

 

thanks again

It is a common issue with the 2000 AT. Apparently the delay shifting is a result of an internal seal not functioning properly and preventing rapid buildup of pressure. My AT was replaced while under warranty. I don't know if a shop would repair as compared to SOA replacement policy instead of their techs fumphering around all day seeing IF they can figure the problem.

Go to the NHTSA.gov site and check under MY 2000 for a TSB on delayed engagement.

after checking the simple stuff i mentioned i would say the oil pump seals are faulty. from the previous poster i'd persue this as far as you can right now, automatic transmissions are nothing to mess with. if there's even a chance of subaru dealing with it, then by all means persue that.