How to Fix a Transmission Shudder

Transmission shudders seem worse than they actually are. Shudders occur most often when shifting into overdrive or when in overdrive and going up a slight incline. This occurs because the transmission fluid is contaminated and the contaminates, being suspended in the fluid, prohibit good pressure contact between the transmission plates when they are applied. Routinely servicing the transmission prevents this from occurring. Left unserviced, the condition will worsen.

Things You'll Need

• Jack
• Jack Stands
• Drain pan
• Gasket scraper
• 3/8-inch socket set
• Funnel

1. Jack up the front of the car

Jack up the front of the car and install jack stands under the frame. Lower the car and make sure it is securely positioned on the stands.

2. Use a socket wrench to remove the transmission pan bolts

Use a socket wrench to remove the transmission pan bolts and remove the pan. Drain the fluid into a drain pan. In some cases, there is a drain bolt in the pan, usually on foreign vehicles. In these cases, remove the drain bolt to drain the transmission.

3. Replace the pan along with a new pan gasket

Replace the pan along with a new pan gasket. Scrape off the old gasket with a gasket scraper, making sure the pan is clean. It is not necessary to replace the transmission filter if the car has low mileage. However, replace the filter, regardless of the mileage, if the fluid is dark and discolored. Remove the jack stands and lower the car.

4. Remove the transmission dipstick and insert a funnel

Remove the transmission dipstick and insert a funnel into the dipstick tube. Estimate the amount of fluid that was removed by checking the drain pan. Add new fluid according to the estimation. Start the car and let it reach operating temperature. Check the fluid amount with the dipstick and add fluid to the recommended amount.

Tips and Warnings

Some vehicles are not equipped with dipsticks or filler tubes. These are difficult to service. Follow recommended guidelines to service these units, or have a professional lube shop perform the service with their specialized equipment.

Depending on the manufacturer, check the transmission fluid level with the car in park or neutral. Be sure to set the parking brake.