automatic trans shifting gears

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Feb 29, 2004 | 10:37 PM

jerkules

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automatic trans shifting gears

I've never felt this before:

I just got a 2004 Explorer XLS V6 SOHC 5 speed auto w/OD. As I accelerate, the truck actually feels like a clutch is being pressed in and is switching gears. I mean that it will sort of pause before it goes into its gear. It will do it through all of the gears. It will do it when I am pressing on the accelerator normally, not mashing it for speed. It is wierd, i've never had an automatic tranny feel like this. Anyone else experience it? Is it normal?

Mar 1, 2004 | 08:31 AM

nhfire 77

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Does the Tach show the RPM's dropping during this occasion? There is a very slight (> 1 sec) "transmissive pause" from one gear to the next

Mar 1, 2004 | 09:23 AM

mgazak

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From: Utica, NY

I have a 2004 Explorer XLT 4x4 w/ the same powertrain. I have also noticed this and wondered. It does say in the manual that "A new vehicle or transmission may have firm and/or soft shifts. This operation is considered normal and will not affect function or durability of the transmission." This is due to what they call an "adaptive learning strategy" in which the computer learns how to shift according to the way you drive.

I will say that it was much more noticeable when I first bought my X in January. It now has about 2500 miles on it and is shifting much smoother. I still do notice this, though, when it shifts in some of the lower gears, usually accelerating from a stop. I'm not sure if it still has learning to do or what. BTW, I've tried to pay attention to the tach even before reading this and it doesn't drop at all.

Thanks for you help and insites

Mar 1, 2004 | 10:21 AM

bilder12

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From: Northeastern Pa - USA

WOW ... I have just bought a new mtneer and am reading all the posts here. This is hard to comprehend ... a vehicle with ADD ( attention deficit disorder ) a hard time learning how to control the trans during shifting. Sorry if I am coming on strong, but I have dealt with dealers in my job and am surprised to hear "new" stories of what dealers and salespeople tell their customers. Donchajustluvit.

Mar 1, 2004 | 01:10 PM

jerkules

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I haven't looked at the tach while it is doing it. I will do that. I've never heard of "adaptive learning strategy" before. But, what you said, mgazak, sounds like it makes sense. I only hope that I have a fast learner...

Mar 1, 2004 | 01:58 PM

borland

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I have the 2004 XLT with same 5 speed automatic.

Having owned two other earlier Explorers (both with 4 speed automatics). It does take some getting used to the extra shifts of this 5 speed. The extra gear appear to be in the take off portion of the range. Makes the car feel more powerful from the start and while maneuvering near a stand still.

Probably nothing wrong with you car. You'll likely get used to it, or it will get used to your driving patterns. Good luck.

borland
2002 XLT