ES 350 Transmission, hard shift into 3rd gear
07-26-22, 11:09 AM
#1
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ES 350 Transmission, hard shift into 3rd gear
I have an 09 ES 350 and when shifting into third gear at low speed, there's a hesitation and then it clunks into gear. 1st to 2nd is smooth and all higher gears are shifting smoothly. If I accelerate faster into 3rd gear, there is no clunk, but it is a noticeably hard shift versus the other gears. Lexus dealer tried software update as per TSB, but that didn't fix it. A transmission specialist suggested that because I have no check engine light on that the excessive "hard shifting" could be due to one or more broken motor mounts. I do need to replace the dog bone mount, which I will do tomorrow. My question is whether anyone has experienced this type of transmission issue and found broken motor or transmission mounts to be the cause.
Thanks..
Thanks..
07-27-22, 12:53 PM
#2
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I doubt a hard-shift problem due to motor mounts would be happening between two gears only. In fact, a hard-shift issue would likely be most noticeable between 1st and 2nd.
I would start with a drain and fill on the tranny, using a high-end synthetic fluid like Amsoil, and depending on miles and previous tranny fluid maintenance history, might consider a complete fluid exchange. Search the threads on this forum for many discussions regarding this topic.
I would start with a drain and fill on the tranny, using a high-end synthetic fluid like Amsoil, and depending on miles and previous tranny fluid maintenance history, might consider a complete fluid exchange. Search the threads on this forum for many discussions regarding this topic.
07-29-22, 04:50 AM
#3
Drain and fill with not do anything.
Replacing the 2-3 solenoid will.
Replacing the 2-3 solenoid will.
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Clutchless (07-29-22)
07-29-22, 08:55 AM
#4
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The OP's question was about motor mounts causing the problem. I express doubt about that, and suggested starting with the ATF. Indeed, replacing the 2-3 solenoid may be the ultimate fix, but it sounded like he was looking first at less invasive and costly repairs. Solenoids can fail electrically and/or mechanically. If the 2-3 solenoid is sticking due to varnish build-up, a high quality ATF like Amsoil may dissolve the varnish. Too, a fluid change can help prevent further problems with other tranny components and solenoids. So, I disagree that a "drain and fill will not do anything." It may be worth a try.
Too, I don't necessarily endorse them, but I know of a few cases where ATF additives have fixed "sticky" shift problems.
Too, I don't necessarily endorse them, but I know of a few cases where ATF additives have fixed "sticky" shift problems.
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