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Rough shifting and hesitation in my 2018 G80 3.8L

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Mike T. · rep 0 · May 25, 4:40 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2018 Genesis G80 3.8L RWD

My 2018 Genesis G80 3.8L RWD has started shifting very roughly, particularly between 2nd and 3rd gear. It's not a smooth transition anymore, feeling almost like a jolt.

Sometimes, especially when accelerating from a stop or low speed, it hesitates for a moment before engaging a gear. It's not consistent, but it seems to be getting worse over the last few weeks.

There are no warning lights on the dashboard yet, but I'm concerned this could be a sign of a serious transmission problem. Has anyone else experienced this with their G80?

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 25, 4:40 AM

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

Rough shifting and hesitation in your 2018 Genesis G80 3.8L can indicate several potential issues, ranging from minor to more significant. It's good that you're addressing it proactively, even without a check engine light.

  1. Transmission Fluid Issues:

    • Low Fluid Level: Insufficient transmission fluid can cause erratic shifting and hesitation. While many modern transmissions are 'sealed for life,' fluid levels can still drop due to leaks.
    • Contaminated or Old Fluid: Over time, transmission fluid breaks down and can become contaminated, losing its lubricating properties. This can lead to poor shifting performance. If your vehicle is due for a transmission fluid service (check your owner's manual for severe service intervals), this could be a factor.

  2. Transmission Solenoids:

    • Solenoids control the flow of transmission fluid to engage different gears. If a solenoid is sticking or failing, it can cause harsh shifts or delays in engagement. Faulty solenoids often trigger specific diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) like P0750, P0755, etc., but not always immediately.

  3. Transmission Control Module (TCM) or Software:

    • The TCM manages the transmission's operations. A glitch in its software or a failing module can lead to incorrect shift timing or pressure. Sometimes, a software update or a re-learn procedure can resolve these issues.

  4. Internal Transmission Wear:

    • While less likely on a 2018 model unless it has very high mileage or has been driven hard, worn clutch packs or other internal components can cause rough shifts.

What to Do:

  • Check Transmission Fluid: If your G80 has a dipstick for the transmission, check the fluid level and condition according to your owner's manual. Note the color and smell (burnt smell is a bad sign).

When to See a Shop: Even without a check engine light, rough shifting and hesitation are symptoms that warrant immediate professional attention. A qualified Genesis technician or transmission specialist should:

  • Scan for Codes: Even if the check engine light isn't on, there might be 'pending' or 'history' codes stored in the TCM that can point to the issue.
  • Perform a Road Test: To observe the shifting behavior under various conditions.
  • Inspect Fluid: Verify fluid level and condition.
  • Diagnose Solenoids/TCM: Use specialized diagnostic tools to test transmission components.

Addressing this early can prevent more extensive and costly transmission repairs down the line.

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