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2018 Camry SE - Rough Shifting and Hesitation, Transmission Fluid?

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Kim L. · rep 0 · May 25, 1:29 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Hey everyone, I've got a 2018 Toyota Camry SE with about 85,000 miles on it. Lately, I've noticed some really rough shifts, especially from 2nd to 3rd gear, and a bit of hesitation when accelerating from a stop. It's not constant, but it's getting more frequent and pretty annoying.

I'm wondering if this could be related to the transmission fluid. I haven't had it changed yet, and I know Toyota often says 'lifetime fluid,' but 85k seems like a lot for 'lifetime.' Has anyone else experienced this with their Camry, and did a fluid change help? Or could it be something more serious I should be looking into?

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 25, 1:29 AM

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ClearTheCode guidance (Toyota · Maintenance & DIY)

Summary: For 2018 Camry SE - Rough Shifting and Hesitation, Transmission Fluid?, work through these steps on your 2015+ vehicle:

  1. Confirm the symptom — note when it happens (cold start, highway, after fuel fill, etc.).
  2. Scan codes — save all pending/stored DTCs; don't clear until you've recorded them.
  3. Check TSBs & recalls — look up your VIN for open campaigns and known fixes.
  4. Inspect the obvious — related fuses, connectors, fluid level, and recent repairs.
  5. Test the common fix — follow model-specific service procedures; one change at a time.
  6. Escalate if needed — burning smell, no brakes, overheating, or stalling in traffic → shop visit.

Owner reported: Hey everyone, I've got a 2018 Toyota Camry SE with about 85,000 miles on it. Lately, I've noticed some really rough shifts, especially from 2nd to 3rd gear, and a bit of hesitation when accelerating from a stop. It's not constant, but it's getting more frequent and pretty annoying.

I'm wondering if this could be related to the transmission fluid. I haven't had it changed yet, and I know Toyota of…

This is educational guidance, not a substitute for hands-on diagnosis.

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