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2018 Charger R/T rough shifting and hesitation – is this normal?

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Brian F. · rep 0 · May 22, 5:49 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2018 Dodge Charger R/T

Hey everyone,

I've got a 2018 Dodge Charger R/T with about 75,000 miles on it, and lately, the transmission has been acting up. I'm experiencing really rough shifts, especially when going from 2nd to 3rd gear, and sometimes from 3rd to 4th. It feels like it's hesitating before it finally clunks into gear, which is pretty unsettling.

It's not constant, but it's happening more frequently, especially when the car is cold or after driving for a while in stop-and-go traffic. I haven't seen any warning lights on the dash yet, but I'm worried this could be a sign of a bigger problem.

Is this a common issue with the 2018 Chargers or the 8-speed automatic transmission? What should I be looking for, and what are the typical causes for this kind of behavior? Any advice on what I should check before taking it to a shop would be greatly appreciated!

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 22, 5:49 AM

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

Rough shifting and hesitation in your 2018 Dodge Charger R/T's 8-speed automatic transmission can be concerning, but it's a problem with several potential causes. Here's what you should consider:

  1. Check Transmission Fluid Level and Condition: This is the first and easiest step. Low or dirty transmission fluid can significantly impact shifting performance. Ensure the fluid is at the correct level and doesn't look dark or smell burnt. Refer to your owner's manual for the correct checking procedure, as many modern transmissions are sealed and require specific methods.

  2. Software Updates: Transmission control modules (TCMs) often receive software updates to improve shifting logic, address known issues, and enhance overall performance. A dealership can check if there are any pending software updates for your specific vehicle's TCM. This is a common fix for various shifting complaints.

  3. Transmission Solenoid Issues: The solenoids within the transmission valve body control the flow of fluid to engage different gears. If a solenoid is sticking or failing, it can lead to rough shifts, delays, or even prevent a gear from engaging properly. While this might not always trigger a Check Engine Light (CEL) immediately, it can eventually lead to diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) like P0700 (Transmission Control System Malfunction) or specific P07xx codes related to solenoid performance.

  4. Valve Body Problems: The valve body is the hydraulic control center of the transmission. Wear or internal issues within the valve body can cause pressure regulation problems, leading to inconsistent and harsh shifts. This is a more complex repair.

  5. Internal Transmission Wear: While less common at 75,000 miles if the transmission has been properly maintained, internal wear on clutches or other components can also contribute to shifting issues.

When to See a Shop:

If checking the fluid level doesn't resolve the issue, or if you're uncomfortable performing these checks yourself, it's highly recommended to take your Charger to a qualified mechanic or a Dodge dealership. They have specialized diagnostic tools to read transmission-specific codes, perform advanced diagnostics, and determine the root cause. Ignoring these symptoms can lead to more severe and costly transmission damage down the line.

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