I recently bought a Camaro I've asked for help with the engine issues on here and waiting responses, but figured I'd ask about my transmission issues (maybe) also. When I bought the car the engine was a little rough, and with no tags on the car I was limited to circling the block at a relatively slow speed. I noticed that the car wouldn't shift into 2nd till about 4000 rpms. I never got it into 3rd gear. I told the guy I wasnt sure about getting the car. he asked why and I explained my concerns about the car. I got half way home and he text me offering a good deal. I said no and low balled him. he tried to meet in the middle and again I said no. he said he was hard up for $ and accepted my offer. I went back and bought the car. after getting the title I checked the fluid level (it was showing on the stick but well low). It was low. I went and got a bottle of lucas trans guard and some dexron vi and went back and added half the trans guard as the funnel I bought didnt work to well. I rechecked and the fluid looked better but still not where it should be. Wife drove the car home and said it only had issues from 1st to 2nd, the rest were smooth as glass. I didnt notice any slipping or grinding. just a hard high rpm shift, Could bringing the fluid level up to correct fix the issue? is it even an issue if the trans isnt slipping? Could there be a shift kit on it and thats why it shifts the way it does?

Second part.
If it could be a shift kit how could I confirm it?
If it is determined that the transmission needs to be rebuilt what upgrades should I do while rebuilding it? Also any suggestions on good brands that are reasonably priced? Basically where does a few dollars extra actually make a difference then a $200 rebuild kit. I want quality, just dont want to pay because its name brand if an off brand is just as good and half the cost.

 

1. Never use an ATF additive...
unless you already intend to rebuild the Transmission, and are trying to get home (vs being stuck somewhere/ broken-down).

2. You have a Vehicle with Electronic Monitoring and Control of the Transmission...
Go to Auto-Zone or a Automotive Parts Store that will allow you to have the Vehicle Scanned.
Note: Not all Scanners will access Transmission related Diagnostic Trouble Codes.

3. Yes, you could have a poorly designed "Shift-Kit" installed, or a "Shift-Kit" installed poorly...
As well as a Bad or Damaged Component in the Transmission. We can only guess without information or disassembling the Unit.

Good luck.