What Causes Difficulty in Shifting Gears in Automatic Transmissions?
3 Answers
Reasons for difficulty in shifting gears in automatic transmissions: 1. The unlock button was not pressed during gear shifting. Straight-line automatic transmission shift levers should have an error-proof locking mechanism, and this button should be pressed during gear shifting operations; 2. Some transmissions are equipped with speed protection devices, allowing gear shifts only when the vehicle speed is 0; 3. The transmission gear guide bearing may be stuck, possibly due to lack of lubrication; 4. There may be mechanical faults in the transmission gear switching mechanism. The normal engine speed for automatic transmissions is generally between 700 to 800 RPM. If the speed is too low, the engine is prone to shaking, and if it's too high, fuel consumption increases. The idle speed may automatically increase by 50 to 150 RPM under the following conditions: 1. Cold start with low water temperature; 2. Weak battery; 3. Air conditioning cooling is on.
I often find that difficulty in shifting an automatic transmission is due to issues with the transmission fluid, such as it being old, dirty, or insufficient. In such cases, the fluid pressure is inadequate, causing the gear lever to stick and making shifting difficult. Another common cause lies in the mechanical parts of the shifting mechanism, like loose linkages or rusted components, which can make the action less smooth. Sometimes, a fault in the transmission's electronic control module can delay signals, resulting in sluggish shifting. In cold weather, the fluid becomes thicker, so waiting a few minutes after starting the engine to let it warm up might help. If you encounter this situation, avoid forcing the lever. First, check the dipstick to see if the fluid level is normal. If the fluid has an unusual odor or has changed color, it's best to replace it immediately to avoid more costly transmission damage later.
I personally experienced difficulty shifting gears in an automatic transmission. That time, after starting the car in the garage, the gear was stuck hard from P to D, and I had to push it several times. Later, upon checking, it turned out that the transmission oil hadn't been changed for too long, accumulating too many impurities that caused internal parts to wear out. It could also be that the springs or bearings in the shifting mechanism were rusted, affecting smooth operation. Driving habits like frequent short trips without warming up the car can exacerbate the problem. That time, I went to the shop and got new oil changed, and it became smooth again. It's recommended to regularly maintain the oil and check it around every 5,000 kilometers to prevent such troubles and save on major repair costs.
