Car Shift Hard After Transmission Fluid Change

Causes

There are a few possible causes for your car to shift hard after a transmission fluid change:

• Incorrect fluid type: Using the wrong type of transmission fluid can cause the transmission to shift hard.
• Low fluid level: If the transmission fluid level is low, it can cause the transmission to slip, which can lead to hard shifting.
• Contaminated fluid: If the transmission fluid is contaminated with dirt or debris, it can clog the transmission filter and cause the transmission to shift hard.
• Damaged transmission: If the transmission is damaged, it can cause the transmission to shift hard regardless of the condition of the transmission fluid.

Diagnosis

To diagnose the cause of your car’s hard shifting, you will need to check the transmission fluid level and condition, and inspect the transmission for damage.

To check the transmission fluid level, follow these steps:

1. Park the car on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
2. Open the hood and locate the transmission dipstick.
3. Pull the dipstick out and wipe it clean with a rag.
4. Reinsert the dipstick into the transmission and pull it out again.
5. The fluid level should be between the “min” and “max” marks on the dipstick.

To check the transmission fluid condition, look at the color and smell of the fluid. The fluid should be a bright red color and should not smell burnt.

To inspect the transmission for damage, look for any leaks or cracks in the transmission case. You should also check the transmission mounts to make sure that they are not broken.

Repair

The repair for a car that is shifting hard after a transmission fluid change will depend on the cause of the problem.

If the problem is caused by incorrect fluid type, the fluid will need to be drained and replaced with the correct type of fluid.

If the problem is caused by low fluid level, the fluid will need to be added to the correct level.

If the problem is caused by contaminated fluid, the fluid will need to be drained and replaced with new fluid. The transmission filter will also need to be replaced.

If the problem is caused by damaged transmission, the transmission will need to be repaired or replaced.

Prevention

You can help to prevent your car from shifting hard after a transmission fluid change by following these tips:

• Use the correct type of transmission fluid: Refer to your car’s owner’s manual to determine the correct type of transmission fluid to use.
• Check the transmission fluid level regularly: Check the transmission fluid level every few months or before long trips.
• Change the transmission fluid and filter according to the manufacturer’s recommended schedule: This will help to keep the transmission fluid clean and free of contaminants.