Transmission is shifting hard, slipping and loses speed?

Tiny
JUDIESIMMONS92
  • MEMBER
  • 2010 DODGE JOURNEY
  • 3.5L
  • 6 CYL
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 167,732 MILES
I have the vehicle listed above SXT. The transmission is shifting hard and slipping and loses speed. When it reaches 45 MPH it's not switching over to the next gear, so it starts to drive like it's in neutral. So, I am going to change the transmission fluid and filter is there a way I can flush out the transmission before putting in the new fluid and filter and how can I check my transmission fluid level after putting on the new filter and fluid to know if its full can I have a full lay out of the transmission and the filter lay out.
Friday, October 27th, 2023 AT 5:30 PM

1 Reply

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 110,055 POSTS
Hi,

To check the fluid level and condition, you need to purchase a special dipstick which is used on many of their vehicles. At the top of the transmission dipstick tube is a cap that is removable. Remove it and then using the tool and following the directions with the tool and directions below, you can check the level.

Pics 1 and 2 are the directions. Pic 3 below is an example of the dipstick you need. I found an inexpensive one on Amazon. The tool's OEM part number is 9336A. Starting with pic 4 are the directions for checking the fluid level and condition.

Note, with the number of miles, I would recommend checking the fluid level and condition prior to service. If it is extremely dirty or has a burnt smell, we may have an internal issue. If it is low, it can cause this issue to happen. If it is very dirty and low, top it off to see if that makes a difference.

One other thought. I would recommend having the car's can-bus scanned for diagnostic trouble codes. There may be a sensor, solenoid, or actuator issue.

Let me know if this helps.

Take care,

Joe

See pics below
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Friday, October 27th, 2023 AT 9:16 PM

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