Seeking Advice on Erratic Transmission Shift in '03 Mazda Flair

Hey there, sounds to me like we're in the same ballpark. Felt the same shifting issues with my '05 Mazda Verisa not long ago, slightly higher mileage though. Seems like the culprit could possibly be the Transmission Control Unit (TCU). Had the very same warning light scenario and it got me on edge. Took her to my mechanic, good guy, who figured out it was the TCU acting up. It turned out to be a software issue in my case, had to get it reprogrammed if you'd believe that. Quite relief it was no mechanical drama. And about your apprehension, I totally get it. My last visit was a bit tiresome too. But with issues like these, it’s essential to get it looked over. You don’t want to mess around with transmission troubles. Don't delay the inevitable. Just ensure you got a guy who knows his way around Mazda’s. Hope this helps and best of luck with your ride!

Wow, sounds like you've been on quite the journey with your Verisa! Appreciate the advice, it definitely comes across as a Transmission Control Unit issue to me now. Makes sense I suppose. Never would've thought it could be a software glitch though. It's good to know there's a possibility it's non-mechanical, but I guess I won't know until I bring it in. Do you recall, by any chance, how much you ended up shelling out for the software reprogramming? And since then, have there been any other TCU related troubles popping up? Feel free to share, I'm all ears! Just want to brace myself for what's to come, y'know? Thanks again for the guidance, it really helps!

Hey, glad the advice could be of use! Oh yeah, it's been quite a ride, but luckily things smoothed out. Didn't think it could be a software issue myself until I heard it straight from my mechanic. As for the cost, well that's where things pinched a little. The software reprogramming set me back around a grand. A cool 1000.00 €. Not exactly pocket change, but worth it in the end. After that, thankfully, no more problems with the TCU. And that parking position switch problem you mentioned earlier? Completely resolved as well. It's been just smooth rides with the old girl since then. So it ain't always about the short-term pain, sometimes you gotta look at the long-term gain! Fingers crossed, it all works out for your Flair. Again, don't be shy about getting it checked out sooner rather than later. Cheers!

Thanks for the detailed response. It seems like quite the spend but a necessary one to get my ride back on track. And it's certainly good news that it mitigated any other TCU and parking position switch problems. Kudos to sorting out your Verisa! Taking the cue from you, I think I'll take my Flair to a specialist asap. Like you said, 'long-term gain!', right? And hopefully, I'd also be cruising along as smoothly as your old girl in no time. Will share updates when I have any. Cheers and thank you once again for sharing your experience, it truly helps!