Wont shift into first gear after a cold start

Hey guys, I have a 2001 Tacoma Trd automatic 4x4 in seemingly immaculate condition. I'm the first owner after my grandfather and we have both treated it with great care.

In the past two weeks after a cold start I drop it into the "drive" setting and step on the accelerator and nothing... It's in second gear. I have to physically place the gear selector into "L" or 1st to get it rolling.

note: this has happened three times in the past two weeks, so its not every time.

This has been the only thing wrong with my truck, ever.

Any ideas? Anything helps!

Thanks Guys

 

When was your last transmission service ?

These transmissions start off in 2nd gear and downshift to first on the initial application into forward . With this said , and depending on your mileage , I am guessing you have a solenoid issue .

Any dash lights on ? Your transmission is computer controlled . Have you had it scanned ?
When a problem pops us like yours , usually there is a code stored in the ECM .
When you drop the shifter down to manual low , your are bypassing the computer function .
You can read about your transmission here .
http://www.tacomaworld.com/forum/technical-chat/325531-aisn-warner-340-series-transmissions.html

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Why would it start off in 2nd then shift to 1st that doesn't sound correct to me. I have never felt that in my truck.

 

If memory serves me correctly, it doesn't "start off" in second, but when you shift it into drive the computer shifts it to second, then first, quite rapidly. This allows for a softer engagement into 1st, so you don't get that hard "jerk" when you shift into drive. So if there is a solenoid issue, then it would shift into 2nd as it should, but the error is causing it to not drop immediately into 1st.

 

My grandparents had the truck given a full "check up" type deal with a mechanic we know and I'm pretty sure that he at least checked the transmission.

I didn't know that the truck shifted into second and then first. I guess you learn something new everyday.

My truck only has a little over 150k miles. We have an engine scanner, and Ill go ahead and scan it tomorrow but as far as dash lights the only thing on is low wiper fluid that I have been lazy about.

If it is the solenoid then what are we talking about? how much are they? where do I get one? can I replace it myself or do I need to get it serviced?

Thanks for the replies guys!

 

http://www.tacomaworld.com/forum/technical-chat/325531-aisn-warner-340-series-transmissions.html

 

Thanks Bama !!!!
hopefully the OP understands what we both meant to say