Vibration or shutter when backing up?

Tiny
JGAN72
  • MEMBER
  • 2007 DODGE DURANGO
  • 3.7L
  • 6 CYL
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 270,000 MILES
The transmission shifts fine but after I start backing up in reverse, it shutters for a few seconds then smooths out after a couple of feet. Could it be that the transmission is slipping, or could it possibly be the pinion bearing where the drive shaft goes in the rear differential or the bearings inside the differential?
Wednesday, March 5th, 2025 AT 8:29 AM

3 Replies

Tiny
STEVE W.
  • MECHANIC
  • 14,055 POSTS
The shudder in reverse only is unfortunately a known part of the 42RLE and many other Chrysler transmissions. Commonly a transmission service with a new filter and fluid helps. Just be sure to use the correct fluid and not one of the universal ones that are out there. Should be around 4 quarts of ATF+4 for a simple filter change, however I would get twice that and then change it twice to get more of the old fluid out. The use of the wrong fluids in that unit will cause more shudder. The basics of the change are to get under the vehicle, set up a drain pan and remove the bolts that hold the pan in place. Leave a couple in by a few threads to catch the pan. Tap the pan to break it free. Then remove one of the bolts holding it up and tilt it so the fluid can run out. Now remove the others and lower the pan. Drain the rest, wipe out the pan and reinstall it temporarily. Add 3 quarts to the transmission and start the engine, shift it through each gear. Shut the engine off and repeat the pan removal. This time wipe out the pan and change the transmission filter as well. Refill and check the level and drive it.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-and-add-transmission-fluid
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Wednesday, March 5th, 2025 AT 10:55 AM
Tiny
JGAN72
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  • 4 POSTS
I forgot to add that it only does that when backing up on a hill. So, this is basically a norm for this transmission? I’ll definitely change the filter and the fluid.
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Thursday, March 6th, 2025 AT 4:29 AM
Tiny
STEVE W.
  • MECHANIC
  • 14,055 POSTS
Yes, typical of a lot of the newer Chrysler transmissions. It's because of how the solenoids select the various gear ranges in the transmission. When you want to worry is when it starts to shudder while going down the road at about 40 MPH or so. That is a sign of the converter failing as it loses the friction material on the lock up surfaces.
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Thursday, March 6th, 2025 AT 3:54 PM

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