i was thinking of getting a rebuild with a reliable warranty, if anything.

anyway, some more things:

i checked the tranny dipstick while the car was hot and the stick was bone dry. am i supposed to check when the car is cold? i don't have the manual on me.

i left the parking spot just now and noticed a small oily spot (NOT positive that it's mine) but i reparked the car somewhere else and will check later.

if it's a leaking seal, any chance that a tranny fluid additive might work (that Lucas stuff).

i'm getting REALLY sad as my car's been doing so good for so many miles.