2004 Cadillac CTS Sluggish Tranny

MZLYNNEROSS40

MEMBER
2004 CADILLAC CTS
6 CYL
4WD
AUTOMATIC
94,000 MILES

When I am driving and I change gears.I can feel the car go into each gear.(A small jerk). It almost feels like a jerk or some sort.I can tell especially when I put the car in reverse.I have a sealed transmission, which means I have to go to a dealer or Tranny shop to have it checked which will be costly. Is this going to be a major repair? And should I take it to the dealer only? I was told by a mechanic that if I have the fluid flushed and changed that would make it works. Is this ture? What can be causing this? I guess I have a 3 part question.

Saturday, May 29th, 2010 AT 8:16 AM

5 Replies

FACTORYJACK

MECHANIC
4,159 POSTS

To feel it change into each gear is not abnormal. Would you describe it as a harsh shift, really firm. Is there a check engine light on? A fluid flush is recommended as maintenance, and generally will not correct an operational concern once there is one. When you engage reverse, does it enage hard?

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Saturday, May 29th, 2010 AT 11:05 AM

MZLYNNEROSS40

MEMBER
2 POSTS

There is no check engine light on.I feel it shift harder in reverse than the other gears. Especially on hills.

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Sunday, May 30th, 2010 AT 4:17 PM

FACTORYJACK

MECHANIC
4,159 POSTS

It is possible that there may be a software calibration to address your concern, that is usually VIN specific. It would be best to express your concern with someone who could drive and evaluate it. Usually if you have a fault causing the control system to maximize line pressure, it would have a check engine light as a visual indicator as well. You could try and have the fluid and filter serviced, especially if it has never been done in the 94k miles that is on it. One thing to pay attention to, is if there is any debris in the pan that would indicate abnormal wear.

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Monday, May 31st, 2010 AT 10:55 AM

MZLYNNEROSS40