Is There A Fix For Auto Trans Wont Shift Into 4th Until Warm?

[SAV912]

Isn't 3rd gear in the ATX at 45 MPH around 2500 or so RPM? Hardly WASTING fuel.

Truth is, Toyota designed it that way since it's such a small engine. The quicker it gets to operating temp, the quicker it reaches the most efficient temperature to operate at thus burning less fuel. There are many, many more factors you should be looking at if you're getting shit mileage in the winter (IE 28 MPG) before blaming it on the ATX not shifting into 4th within a mile or two of starting up. I guarantee you that mile of being stuck in 3rd will not net you the increase from 28 MPG to whatever you think you should be getting. Blame winter blend gas, underinflated or winter spec tires, or your short commute before you go modifying the electronics in the ATX.

Solution:
1. Trade for manual, although lugging the engine when cold won't do you any favors in regard to fuel efficiency.

2. Leave New Jersey.

-C