Hi guys,


First time poster, long time lurker on the forums. Learned a lot over the years from the many folks here. I finally have a question that I couldn't find an answer to here.

My 2011 ISF has around 50K miles. Recently I noticed that when I shift into 1st from 2nd, usually on approach to a slower curve or slowing down to a light, there appears to be a distinct shudder. It doesn't happen all the time, and it happens regardless of Sport or normal mode.

Right after it shifts to 1st and the RPMs climb (or so it seems), I get 3-4 distinct back and forth movements .. i.e shudder. I think this is a recent phenomenon, as I know shifting into 1st is usually not very smooth, but I don't think I felt this shudder before.

No codes etc ...everything else normal. Don't think the trans is slipping, as car pulls hard and traction control is always busy Any ideas? Motor mounts? Car is never tracked and driven spiritedly, but never ever abused or tracked. I do enjoy shifting it.

 

I agree 2nd to 1st is not very smooth even in my car (in manual mode). Also 2011. That should just be the torque converter re-engaging/unlocking. I try not to downshift from 2nd to 1st to avoid this. Can't say I have a distinct "shudder" though.

 

you said it doesn't happen all the time. are you making sure that the engine/trans is fully warmed up before making this observation?

 

It happens, and its normal.

It is even more noticeable when the trans fluid is cold.

 

I believe so. What I mean is, I first noticed it on my way to work, as I pulled into the building. This was on a warm day, after about a 20 min drive on suburban roads. I assume this would be enough time for it to warm up. I will test again, but I usually don't shift manually until the car is fully warmed up. The only thing is ... the car is not driven much the last month and has sat for a week or more stretch at a time. I've been using another commuter car for work etc. Not sure if that has anything to do with it.

The shudder is pretty distinct, not the usual drive-line lash you feel that whips your head forward for a split second. This is that , plus 3-4 quick "back and forth" shudders.

 

I think it may have to do with the lock-up torque converter in gears 2-8... It has to unlock going back into 1st.
This is in manual mode only which shows why automatic is so smooth.

 

I think it is normal operation. Downshifting into 1st in a manual car is also not the smoothest thing in the world.

 

Another possibility, it could be time to change those rotors.

 

It is normal

 

That was one of my theories too, but I ruled it out since this happens even with my foot is completely off the brakes ... i.e costing in 2nd, shift into 1st.

So there is a chance this is normal. Strange, how I only noticed it now. Maybe cause I usually try NOT to shift into 1st when moving.

 

Hard downshift to 1st is pretty standard in automatics, from my experience. It gets worse as the box ages for sure, but it's always been there.

 

sounds normal to me