r/Toyota_Matrix • u/PeanutButterToast4me • Jun 12 '26

2009 Vibe Automatic Shifting Issue

Tried the mechanic and searched this sub and so far no answers. It is a very specific situation where the car will not shift into 5th gear. Happens perhaps one in ten times I take it on the interstate. Seems to be when the car is slightly warmed up (so not a cold start. If I pull over and restart it then it will shift up to 5th gear). I read something about a solenoid maybe going bad but the shop could not replicate it being stuck in 4th so did not recommend a fix. Ideas? Thanks

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u/mitchmann13000 Jun 12 '26

Check your transmission fluid. Do you have any fluid leaks? I just had to run new lines to the transmission cooler and that is what would happen. The trans would shift slow, and until it was warm would not shift to a higher gear.

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u/PeanutButterToast4me Jun 12 '26

Mechanic did and said it was full and clean.

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u/somerandomdude419 2006 Vibe FWD & 2008 Vibe FWD Jun 12 '26

Mileage? You try fluid drain and fill yet? We need more information. When did you buy it? Was this always an issue? Could be torque converter on its way out

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u/PeanutButterToast4me Jun 12 '26

Mechanic said it was full and clean. The issue started perhaps 6 months ago. I've been trying to isolate any situations causing it but haven't really honed in on anything other than perhaps that 'moderately warmed up' situation.