Code P1870

[Buteo]

Hi, ya'll
I'm new to this site, but I'm hoping you can help me. I have a 97 Grand Am, with 133000 mi, which has been driving pretty good. I was driving down the highway earlier today and I noticed my "check engine" light had come on. I stopped at the local AutoZone to have them read it. There were two codes, both of them were "p1870". He suggested I talk to a local dealer, but they wont tell me anything with out seeing the car, and since I don't want to shell out a couple hundred just for them to look at it, I googled the code. In everything I've read about the p1870 code, the person has been noticing slippage or other problems with the tranny. I haven't had any noticable problem. Is there any other cause for this to happen?
Thanks,
Buteo

[maxwedge]

Welcome to AF, yes this relates to the pcm seeing slippage errors at certain speeds/loads, as a result the pcm boosts internal pressure to compensate. You should have this scanned and road tested by a trans tech for trans slippage errors, many conditions can cause this ,the most common cause is a valve body problem.

[Buteo]

Thanks for the input. Is this something that needs to be addressed right away, or can it wait a week? I realize that the longer I put it off, more damage can result, which in end will cost more. What I'm worried about is if my transmission is going to go out on me before I have a chance to get my car in the shop. Being as it's my only vehicle, and public transportation is not available, is it still safe to drive to work and back?

[maxwedge]

If you do not feel any slippage or unusual shift patterns, 1 week won't change anything.

[Buteo]

Thanks, I'll keep this thread updated on what I find out.