Service Engine soon message on dash

[bluemtnblue]

My "service engine soon" light came on on the dash Saturday on my 1998 Buick Century (126000 miles) Stayed on constantly until Tuesday. (yes, I checked the gas cap!). On my way to the dealer's to get it checked out, the light went out.
I had the guy at the dealer's check it anyway and his hand held machine he checked it out with said "transmission component slipping". He suggested I take the car to a transmission specialist to find out what the message means.
The car is running fine and the light is now out, hasn't been back on.
Any ideas before I go to the transmission guy?

[BNaylor]

Welcome to AF.

Most likely a P1870 DTC which is transmission component slipping. It means excessive TCC slip has been detected when the torque convertor clutch should be engaged.

When was the last transmission service? ATF and screen filter.

Also, check your SPID label on the back of trunk lid to see what autotransaxle you have. Could be a 4T60E or 4T65E. RPO M13 is 4T60E and M15/MN3 is 4T65E. Post the info.

[MT-2500]

Originally Posted by bluemtnblue

My "service engine soon" light came on on the dash Saturday on my 1998 Buick Century (126000 miles) Stayed on constantly until Tuesday. (yes, I checked the gas cap!). On my way to the dealer's to get it checked out, the light went out.
I had the guy at the dealer's check it anyway and his hand held machine he checked it out with said "transmission component slipping". He suggested I take the car to a transmission specialist to find out what the message means.
The car is running fine and the light is now out, hasn't been back on.
Any ideas before I go to the transmission guy?

I can not see why a dealer would say to hunt up a transmission specialist yet just for a one time code on it.
As Bnaylor said
Transmission filter and fluid service is the first good step.
A good dealer or repair shop be able to take care of the transmission service or if you are a DIY it is not that hard to do it your self.
If just a one time code set do not let a transmission shop get carried away on repairs yet.
When the filter and transmission pan is off check for excessive metal/plastic or clutch material in the bottom of the pan.
Let us know how it goes.
MT