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2018 Charger R/T Transmission Jerking and Hard Shifts

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Paul Z. · rep 0 · May 22, 5:41 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2018 Dodge Charger R/T

My 2018 Dodge Charger R/T, with about 70k miles, has started acting up. Lately, the transmission feels like it's jerking, especially when shifting from 1st to 2nd gear, and sometimes when downshifting at lower speeds. It's not smooth at all, and it feels like a hard thud.

I've checked the fluid level, and it seems okay, though I haven't had it changed recently. There's no check engine light on yet, but the feeling is definitely getting worse. It's making city driving pretty uncomfortable.

Has anyone else experienced this with their Charger? What could be causing this rough shifting? Is it something I can check myself, or does it sound like a trip to the dealership is inevitable?

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 22, 5:41 AM

0

ClearTheCode admin answer:

Rough shifting and jerking in your 2018 Dodge Charger R/T can be a concerning issue, often pointing to problems within the transmission system. Here's a breakdown of potential causes and steps you can take:

Common Causes:

  • Low or Contaminated Transmission Fluid: Incorrect fluid level or old, degraded fluid can lead to poor lubrication and hydraulic pressure issues, causing harsh shifts.
  • Faulty Transmission Solenoids: These electronic components control the flow of transmission fluid to engage gears. If a solenoid is sticking or failing, it can cause erratic shifting.
  • Valve Body Issues: The valve body is the 'brain' of the automatic transmission, directing fluid pressure to the appropriate clutch packs. Wear or blockages can disrupt this process.
  • Transmission Control Module (TCM) Software: Sometimes, a simple software update for the TCM can resolve shifting anomalies.
  • Internal Transmission Wear: Worn clutch packs or other internal components can also contribute to rough shifting, especially in higher mileage vehicles.

Diagnostics & Steps:

  1. Check Transmission Fluid Condition: Beyond just the level, observe the fluid's color and smell. Healthy ATF+4 fluid should be reddish and not smell burnt. Dark, brownish, or burnt-smelling fluid indicates a problem.
  2. Scan for Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs): Even without a Check Engine Light (CEL), a professional OBD-II scanner can often reveal pending or historical transmission-related codes. Look for codes like P0700 (Transmission Control System Malfunction) which is a general TCM code, or more specific codes like P0731, P0732, P0733 (Incorrect Gear Ratio for 1st, 2nd, 3rd gear respectively).
  3. Transmission Fluid and Filter Service: If the fluid is old but not severely burnt, a proper transmission fluid and filter change (using genuine Mopar ATF+4) might improve shifting. Caution: If the fluid is very dark and smells strongly burnt, a full flush might dislodge debris and worsen the problem; a pan drop and filter change is generally safer in such cases.
  4. TCM Software Update: Visit a Dodge dealership to check if there are any available software updates for your Charger's Transmission Control Module. These updates often address known shifting issues.

When to See a Shop:

  • Immediately if the problem worsens, you hear grinding noises, or the vehicle refuses to shift into certain gears.
  • If a fluid change and software update do not resolve the issue.
  • If you receive specific transmission-related OBD codes (especially beyond P0700) that point to internal component failure.
  • A qualified transmission specialist or Dodge dealership has the specialized diagnostic tools and expertise to accurately pinpoint the exact cause of your Charger's shifting problems. Repairs could range from solenoid replacement to a valve body overhaul or, in severe cases, a transmission rebuild or replacement. Ignoring these symptoms can lead to more extensive and costly damage.
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