Worn fluid can lead to hard shifts Over time, the fluid's frictional properties can degrade, leading to hard, jerky or inconsistent shifts. In this case, it's time for a fluid change.
Though changing transmission fluid can't fix mechanical problems, it does make for smoother shifts and can extend the life of your transmission. And even when manufacturers recommend fluid change intervals of 150,000 miles under normal conditions, it may be a good idea to change it more frequently.
Transmission Fluid Low or Poor Condition – Vehicles low on transmission fluid or that are operating with worn out or contaminated fluid are likely to experience hard shift conditions. Lack of adequate lubrication within the transmission can cause several problems, including hard shifting.
Fixing Rough Transmissions
If it's a mechanical part (such as a solenoid or sensor) causing the problem, you'll probably need to go to a mechanic. They can (hopefully) diagnose the problem and replace the faulty part. If the transmission fluid is the problem, things get a lot easier (and less expensive).
Transmission oil change eliminates the old blackish oil having lots of debris. Old transmission oil would clog the gears, resulting in a problem in gear shifting. Clean transmission oil makes gear shifting seamless and convenient. You can increase and decrease speed by shifting gears without any hassles.
If the vehicle just wasn't shifting as smooth as usual, a fluid change might help that (assuming there's not mechanical damage), and you would notice a difference right away. It depends on the transmission. I personally have found that with MANUAL transmissions, it can take some time before you notice better shifting.
Along with gear slippage, low transmission fluid levels can also cause low levels of pressure, which leads to slower engagement when shifting gears. If you notice your transmission takes a second to engage when put into drive or reverse, it could be due to low fluid levels.
Start with the easiest fix
In this case, check the transmission fluid level first. Low fluid can lead to a transmission that shifts hard. It's important to find out why the fluid is low and fix any problems. It could be a leaky seal or other mechanical defect.
This is usually caused by troubles with the vacuum, transmission fluid or a faulty sensor. The vacuum modulator valve helps older vehicles determine when to shift gears. There's a hose that connects the valve with the intake through a hose.
Dirty transmission fluid can cause symptoms similar to low transmission fluid levels, and that includes grinding and other unusual noises. If you are hearing these noises, check both the fluid levels and consistency.
Grinding noises, transmission leaks, burning smells, noisy idling, and shifting delays are all common symptoms of a clogged filter.
Noise When in Neutral – Noises from your car are always something you need to look into. Noises in neutral are definitely a sign of issues. A clogged filter is one of several problems that could lead to this symptom. Shifting Problems– Clogged filters will make it hard to switch gears.
Conventional wisdom from most manufacturers dictates that drivers have their transmission fluid changed at 30,000-mile or two-year intervals. Some transmission fluids don't have to be changed until the 100,000-mile mark or even greater.
Automatic: Every 60,000 to 100,000 miles
If you drive manual, most manufacturers will recommend changing your transmission fluid every 30,000 to 60,000 miles. If you have automatic, you can typically boost that range up to 60,000 to 100,000 miles. There's no harm in changing your fluid early.
Changing the fluid on a regularly driven vehicle can only help revitalize the clutch material. If the fluid has never been changed on a regularly driven car, at 170,000 miles, you damn well need to completely flush the system!
Can a Transmission Flush Fix Slipping? Yes, your fluid might be the issue, whether it's contaminated, too high, or too low.
Healthy transmission fluid should look relatively clear or pink in color. Transmission fluid that has a deep red or brown color means that it is old and is causing additional damage to your transmission. Dark brown transmission fluid is a sign that your burnt transmission fluid is overheating.
Once the transmission fluid turns brown, which is usually at about 30,000 miles, it's time to change it. The brown transmission fluid will become opaque, which means you can't see through it anymore.
If your speed sensor is sending incorrect data, it can lead to hard shifting and other drivability problems.
Automatic transmissions that shift hard, jerk or shake during a shift change may mean your transmission fluid needs changed or fluid level is low. In manual transmission vehicles, abnormal gear shifts could indicate damaged gear synchros, worn clutches or other, more severe issues.
What could the problem be? There are a range of reasons why your car is juddering when you accelerate. Your vehicle could have dirty fuel injectors, a damaged fuel pump, a blocked catalytic converter, a faulty mass airflow sensor, broken spark plugs, or even an accumulation of moisture.