Hard Shift between 2nd and 3rd gears when in M

[coold8]

Hi all,

I have a very strange problem. If I shift between 2nd and 3rd gear ONLY in manual (DS and D drive perfectly fine, and you never notice the problem) and ONLY when it is above 4500RPM there is an extremely hard shift when I shift. Does anyone know what might be causing the problem? It seems like it might be electronics because it does not do it when it is in D or DS. Thanks.

-David J. Eisen

[jmess]

I think that is the way the shift logic is programmed. When you shift manually they figure you want a fast and more direct shift. My car, 2wd, does the same thing.

[SteveTheTech]

It seems like that may be "normalish" given the operating conditions. If you think about the parameters that effect transmission shift point and line pressure. Throttle input and road speed are two major factors for shift points. The transmission pump is run off the crankshaft so the output of the pump will increase when input RPMs increase. There are internal solenoids and a pressure relief valve that keep it at a consistent pressure, however when the input logic changes to assist in spirited driving the car tries to give a sportier feel.

Try a quick test. Next to you are flogging you EX try keeping your foot off the throttle (hold the gear) a little bit, continue to accelerate to 4.5-5+k wherever you typically shift out at and see if the shift is still hard. Throttle input in the transmission is processed into eighths so hypothetically if your typical throttle input is 6/8ths try 3/8ths and see if it happens. It's justification for spirited driving, it's in the name of research.

[coold8]

Hey guys,

Got something interesting,

Brought the car to the dealer today and they told me to take it for a road test with a tech. The tech believed there was some sort of transmission valve problem (don't quote me I don't remember his wording) and he is ordering a part for Tuesday. If it doesn't work they may replace the whole transmission. Comments?

[cjre1]

My comment is good. Let them replace whatever needs to be done to get fixed. I think the vlave is sticking. I had this happen to me on my Acura Legend. It is a 4 hour fix.

[SteveTheTech]

That sounds about right to me. Although I have never seen this issue on an EX it is not to say that random things may happen. Fortunately the entire shift control mechanism is replaced as a unit. This does indeed sound like a hydraulic shift control issue, either a sticking or clogged solenoid valve would be suspected. A valve body assembly should resolve this issue once and for all.

[Moe35]

strange mine does the same never felt it was an issue should i be worried ?