1997 Volkswagen Jetta GT Hard Shifting

1997 VOLKSWAGEN
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SMITTY_KITTY_678
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  • 1 POST
A few months ago, my automatic Jetta started shifting hard in to second gear, but only when it was cold, and only right after I started it up. When it warmed up, no problems.
Recently, it started doing the same thing going from a stop, in drive, to first gear.
The engine revs to about 40 rpm before catching.
With previous cars I've owned, I would have flushed the transmission. Apparently you can't do this on my Jetta, it is a "sealed system". According to the dealership, a flush is very rarely done. Personally, I don't get it. Sealed system or not, the fluid must get dirty.
I am unsure of what to do. A friend suggested having the computer timing adjusted? If anyone has a clue about what's going on, please help me!
Jan 16, 2006 at 5:05 PM
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BLUELIGHTNIN6
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 16,542 POSTS
You need to have the tranny fluid/filter changed, not flushed. Flushing the tranny fluid is different than simply changing it and can not be performed nor is it recommended on all vehicles.



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Mar 4, 2009 at 2:39 AM
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GABRIELJORGE
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  • 2 POSTS
I have similar problem and I change the speed sensor of the transmission and the problem was gone, the engine light never was on .
Mar 6, 2009 at 2:56 AM
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Suggested Repair

Have the transmission fluid and filter changed rather than flushed. A fluid-and-filter service is different from a flush and is the recommended approach.

Conversation Summary

The owner of a 1997 automatic Jetta GT reported hard shifts into second gear when cold, and later hard engagement into first from a stop, with the engine revving before the transmission caught. The owner noted the transmission was described as a sealed system and that a dealership rarely performs flushes. An expert advised changing the transmission fluid and filter rather than flushing, explaining that a flush differs from a fluid change and is not recommended on all vehicles. Another user reported a similar issue that resolved after replacing the transmission speed sensor, with no check-engine light.

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