Maxima 2005 (Automatic) Transmission

[ssykes1]

My 2005 Nissan Maxima (Build date of 08/04) has 69000 miles and has started showing signs of what may be serious transmission problems. I welcome any feedback as to the best course of action to correct these intermitent and random symptoms that include:
1. Takes about 5 seconds to click into gear after the shift lever is put in "D"
2. Very hard jerky shifts between 1st to 2nd and 2nd to 1st and accompanied by loud clunking noise.
3. Transmission slips out of gear during regular driving allowing the engine to rev freely then jerking back into gear with a loud clunk.

Just when I was ready to trade it in and get a new one!posting.php?mode=post&f=83#

[maxhopper]

Check the fluid level. Otherwise I'd say there is probably an internal issue. You can drop the transmission fluid pan and check the magnets on the bottom of the pan for metal debris.