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2020 Pacifica Transmission Hesitation and Hard Shifts

0

Mike T. · rep 0 · May 25, 4:21 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2020 Chrysler Pacifica Touring L

Hi all,

My 2020 Chrysler Pacifica Touring L, with the 3.6L V6 and 9-speed automatic, has been acting strange lately. I've noticed a significant hesitation when accelerating from a stop, almost like it's struggling to find the right gear. It's not consistent, but it's happening more frequently.

On top of that, I'm experiencing some pretty harsh and clunky shifts, especially between 2nd and 3rd gear, and sometimes downshifting from 4th to 3rd. It feels less smooth than it used to be. There's no check engine light yet, but I'm worried this could be a sign of a bigger transmission problem.

Has anyone else with a newer Pacifica experienced similar transmission behavior? What was the fix? I'm at about 60,000 miles.

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 25, 4:21 AM

0

ClearTheCode admin answer:

The 9-speed automatic transmission in the Chrysler Pacifica (and other FCA vehicles) has been known to exhibit various shifting characteristics, including hesitation and hard shifts. While some of these can be 'normal' learning behavior of the adaptive transmission, persistent and worsening issues warrant investigation.

Here's what could be happening and what steps to take:

  1. Transmission Software Updates:

    • Cause: Chrysler has released several software updates for the 9-speed transmission to improve shift quality, address hesitation, and optimize performance. Your vehicle might be running an older calibration.
    • Action: This is often the first and simplest step. Visit a Chrysler dealership to check for and apply any available Transmission Control Module (TCM) software updates. This can often resolve many shift-related complaints.

  2. Adaptive Learning Reset:

    • Cause: The transmission's computer 'learns' your driving style over time. Sometimes, this learning can become skewed, leading to undesirable shift patterns.
    • Action: A dealership or an advanced scan tool can perform a transmission adaptive learning reset. After the reset, the transmission will relearn its shift points based on your current driving, which can sometimes smooth out rough shifts.

  3. Low or Contaminated Transmission Fluid:

    • Cause: Incorrect fluid levels or degraded transmission fluid can severely impact shift quality and lead to hesitation.
    • Action: While the 9-speed is often considered 'sealed for life,' fluid levels can still be low from the factory or due to a minor leak. Check the fluid level (if accessible, otherwise a shop can do it) and condition. A fluid and filter change might be beneficial, especially if the fluid appears dark or smells burnt.

  4. Internal Transmission Component Wear/Failure:

    • Cause: In more severe cases, issues like worn clutch packs, valve body problems, or solenoid failures within the transmission can cause hard shifts and delays.
    • Action: If software updates and fluid checks don't help, a professional transmission diagnostic is necessary. They can check for internal fault codes (even if the CEL isn't on) and perform more in-depth tests.

When to see a shop:

  • Immediately if the issue is accompanied by a 'Transmission Service' warning light or Check Engine Light.
  • If the shifts become increasingly harsh or if the vehicle struggles to engage gears.
  • If software updates do not resolve the problem.
  • Anytime you suspect an internal transmission issue, as these are complex systems best handled by specialists.
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