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hi guys ,i have a 99 2.5 auto outback .. problem im having is mainly kickdown related ,eg ; i come to a hill doing say 70ks 2000rpm put foot down slightly ,car kicks into neutral ,revs biuld cause of slight ecceleration ,biulds to about 4 or 5 rpms then bangs so harshly into gear it churps the tyres ,,,if im quick enough and feel it about to change i release my foot off eccelerater pedal so it doesnt build revs on change ... it also sometimes nuetralizes on round abouts ,,,would seem to indicate low on fluid ,but its not ,fluid level is fine ....any ideas would be greatly appreciated ... thanks khanacross

How does the fluid look? is it pink or black? Crappy burnt fluid could do this.

There is no external adjustment for the brake bands and clutches, its all done by the computer. Has the 'AT Oil Temp' light or 'Power' light flashed at and stage? This could indicate an electrical fault.

thanks suparoo, the oil does look pretty ordinary ,bit dirty ,, no dash lights have come on ...someone even suggested a blocked exhaust ... i suppose thats possible , when standing behind the car can hardly feel any air coming out of exhaust with motor running .. thanks khanacross

any thoughts ?

sounds like the auto is stuffed mate. The term you are looking for is "flaring". Drop in to an automatic gearbox specialist and have them take it for a drive.