How to Fix Automatic Transmission Problems While Shifting Gears? (5 Expert Solutions)

In this brief guide, we are going to provide you with the common shifting problems with automatic transmission problems and what you can do to rectify these problems before they worsen.

Automatic Transmission does not require any manual input to shift gears while driving. Various sensors work in coordination to shift gears automatically. However, there are many problems with automatic transmissions and we’ll tell you how you can solve them.

What are the common shifting problems with automatic transmission?

Most of the common shifting problems with automatic transmission are:

• Grinding or shaking sensation in drive
• Drive engagement failure
• Lack of throttle response
• Irregular and loud noises
• Gear slippage

Why is grinding or shaking sensation while driving a shifting problem with automatic transmissions?

Because shaking or grinding  would mean the transmission is not functioning smoothly as automatic transmissions are designed for a smoother drive than manual. Therefore if you’re experiencing grinding when you accelerate then it means you have a problem.

What signs are shown by this automatic transmission problem?

Shaking or grinding itself can be taken as a sign of this automatic transmission problem because automatic transmissions are not meant to shake when loaded or accelerated. 

How to fix this automatic transmission problem?

Visiting your trusted mechanic or service center at the earliest is possibly the only way to fix this issue as the shifting solenoids might be worn out and it requires experience and expertise to repair this problem.

Why is drive engagement failure a shifting problem with automatic transmissions?

As drive engagement is important for any vehicle and if the drive is not engaging as it should then there is definitely a problem with the automatic transmission.

What signs are shown by this automatic transmission problem?

If you are finding it difficult to engage or if the drive is not engaging at all then this can be taken as a sign that the transmission is not functioning well.

How to fix this automatic transmission problem?

The engagement problem can be fixed by visiting a mechanic and checking if there is a problem with the mechanical part of the particular gear in the transmission. Also the shifting solenoids need to be checked and repaired.

Why is lack of throttle response a shifting problem with automatic transmissions?

You would want a seamless and smooth shift even at low throttle input, so if your automatic transmission is shifting slow or responding slow even at high throttle then there is definitely a problem.

What signs are shown by this automatic transmission problem?

You would immediately notice and sense if the automatic transmission is shifting slowly from one gear to another as this is one of most important issues with automatic transmissions

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How to fix this automatic transmission problem?

Firstly try replacing the transmission pressure sensor, if that doesn’t work then check for an oil leak in the servo assembly of the particular gear. These are primarily two fixes for this problem.

Why is irregular and loud noises a shifting problem with automatic transmissions?

These automatic transmissions are not manufactured to make such unpleasant noises and if you are hearing such loud noise while driving then you immediately check with your mechanic as this might be a serious issue.

What signs are shown by this automatic transmission problem?

You will hear these loud noises while driving and will be very unpleasant to your ears which can be taken as a sign that the transmission is having some problem.

How to fix this automatic transmission problem?

Normally this sound means that the sunshell within the differential assembly needs to be replaced as it might be fractured. The entire differential assembly must be removed and rebuilt to fix this problem.

Why is gear slippage a shifting problem with automatic transmissions?

The automatic transmission gear systems are not designed to slip and if you are experiencing slippage then it is definitely a sign of a problem with the mechanical components of the transmission.

What signs are shown by this automatic transmission problem?

You will be able to hear the gear slip while driving and this would be a good sign if there is slipping. Also, an error code will be displayed if you use a diagnostic tool.

How to fix this automatic transmission problem?

The solenoids of the two gears might be worn out and need to be replaced. Also, there is a chance that these solenoids might also be broken. Rarely, complete mechanical failure occurs with these transmissions.

How to diagnose these common shifting problems with automatic transmission precisely?

To properly diagnose these problems, you need a scan tool to read these codes from the Transmission Control Unit. Firstly, If an automatic transmission is malfunctioning, it immediately informs the driver with an error message on the screen. 

How to prevent getting these problems in the first place?

Regularly changing your gearbox oil and other lubricants may save you a lot of trouble and money in the future. Although many experts suggest different number miles for servicing, your car manual will give you a proper recommendation when you should change it. 

This is the easiest and most effective way to take care of your automatic transmission and also drive your vehicle in a recommended way.

FAQs: Automatic transmission problems shifting gears

What causes transmission shifting problems?

Many things including dirty or low fluid, improper signals from the computer, an ill running engine, worn or damaged clutches, valve body issues and others may cause transmission shifting problems.

What would cause an automatic transmission not to shift?

The engine control unit might be not working as it should and that is what causes an automatic transmission not to shift.  It is best to get this checked out by an experienced auto mechanic technician who understands the electrical system. 

Conclusion

In this brief guide, we have provided you with the common shifting problems with automatic transmission and what you can do to rectify these problems before they worsen.

If you have any questions or comments please let us know.

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