Find Out Why Your Transmission is Kicking

By Mister Transmission

Are you experiencing transmission hard shifting problems? Discover what the possible causes are and how you can prevent them

It’s one of the most common problems drivers experience when troubles arise with their vehicles’ transmissions: transmission kicking, also referred to as hard or jerky shifting when changing gears. If you’re experiencing this unsettling problem, a variety of potential causes could be responsible.

More often than not, hard transmission shifts can be attributed to an inadequate level of transmission fluid in your vehicle, or the fluid’s effectiveness is failing because it’s old, dirty, and needs replacing. If the transmission begins to overheat, the fluid will oxidize and it won’t lubricate or cool the transmission. Further, it’s possible your car needs a new transmission filter and a transmission flush, too.

Other possible causes of transmission kicking include:

  • Sensor-related problems. There are electronic sensors located throughout your vehicle that is designed to send and receive signals from the car’s internal computer system. Some of the sensors onboard are responsible for determining when your transmission changes gears, but if the signals between sensors and the computer get crossed, it can lead to hard shifting issues.
  • Clogged or loose vacuum lines. Leaky, loose, or clogged transmission vacuum lines or hoses affect the pressure in the transmission and can create all sorts of problems including hard shifting.

Preventative Maintenance Is Essential

Avoiding a costly transmission repair is entirely dependent upon preventative and proactive maintenance conducted at regular intervals by a certified and experienced professional technician.

Know the faulty transmission warning signs, and if you’re seeking a smoother ride in your car, visit a Mister Transmission location near you to get help correcting the kicking feeling coming from your transmission.

Find a location near you and make an appointment today. Take advantage of our free 21-point multi-check inspection and avoid the cost and aggravation associated with a failing transmission.

Want to know more?Visit our one of locations!

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Customer Reviews
We have brought our problematic...
Amy Tran
We have brought our problematic 2016 Nissan Altima here twice now with transmission issues. The customer service is excellent and they seem to have the client's best interest in mind. Luke and the team are knowledgeable, professional and honest. They have been transparent and communicative with the issues, expectations and timelines. Pricing is fair, especially compared to the dealership who gave ridiculous quotes. So far we have had a great experience and are satisfied - thanks for keeping our car running!
Date: June 2, 2025
Website: Google
Vehicle towed to mister transmission,...
Robert Carrier
Vehicle towed to mister transmission, he found the problem immediately. Being atraveler he drove me to a motel and started on my car. Returned my car the next day and also corrected another problem I had, that I was unaware of. I highly recommend this place to everybody his expertise and quick service, also his concern for the safety of his customers.
Date: May 31, 2025
Website: Google
Gary was super helpful! Got...
Denisha Bracey
Gary was super helpful! Got my VW Beetle in very fast and had it fixed just 2 days later! Car drives beautifully, price was fair, and I’m very happy!
Date: May 31, 2025
Website: Google
I highly recommend this shop!!!...
Mohit Mohit
I highly recommend this shop!!! A+ Service!! Thank you again Travis!! You are the best!!
Date: May 31, 2025
Website: Google
Replaced a rear differential for...
Glenn Alloway
Replaced a rear differential for one third the price of the dealership. Work was completed in 2 days.
Date: May 30, 2025
Website: Google
The team at Mister Transmission...
James Calpas
The team at Mister Transmission were friendly, approachable and competent. The rear differential on my Ram 1500 Outdoorsman was shot and these guys rebuilt and upgraded the rear differential at a reasonable cost. It runs great, solid as a tank!
Date: May 30, 2025
Website: Google
I have taken all my...
Soo Chung
I have taken all my vehicles here for transmission and axle repairs and service for several years now. The staff are pleasant to deal with and they have always delivered what they promise. Had a small issue with my truck and they were very accommodating. Got me in and on the road quickly. I would give 4.5 stars and recommend Mr Transmission for any transmission repairs or service.
Date: May 30, 2025
Website: Google
What an amazing team. Chris,...
Tammy Spears
What an amazing team. Chris, Ron and the other wonderful man. My car broke down this afternoon at a gas station but before it broke down the battery warning light kept coming on so I got a boost and drove my car to buy a battery. Well started to drive my car and the battery warning light came on again so I heard that Mr transmission does free car diagnostics so decided to call them and had an appointment for 1: 00. Well I just drove my car straight down there and parked my car in their parking lot because I knew as soon as I shut my car off it won't start. Well these three guys come straight to my car as it was squealing as well. They did their diagnostic and it turned out it was my alternator. Well these guys went out of their way to fix my car on the spot. They only work on transmissions but Chris thought I needed a break and fix my car on the spot. I had the parts delivered and the guys worked on it for hours but only charged me under an hour's labor. Their garage closes at 5:00 but all three of these wonderful men stayed later until my car was running properly. There are no words to express the gratitude I have for these three men. Not too many places go out of their way at their own cost to help someone get back on the road. Finding a garage that's willing to help out in a pinch, especially with something outside their usual scope of work, and then stay late to make sure you're back on the road safely, is incredibly rare and special.
Date: May 29, 2025
Website: Google
one of the best service...
Scott
one of the best service centers you will ever go to, quality work at a fare price.
Date: May 29, 2025
Website: Google
Sanjay and Bailey (technician) are...
Joy Hickox
Sanjay and Bailey (technician) are both amazing individuals to deal with.The customer service received from Sanjay is top notch and the knowledge and expertise and honesty from Bailey is incredible!I took my vehicle in there for a second opinion after already being to a different Mr. Transmission location for a diagnostic.Needless to say the outcome I received was the exact same from another location; being that there was absolutely nothing wrong with my CVT transmission (2018 Honda CRV) after being charged $180 and told that my transmission was the issue from my regular mechanic shop a couple days prior.I highly recommend Mr. Transmission (Exeter Rd location) 1000% to anyone and everyone who may be experiencing or believe to be experiencing transmission issues.Their knowledge, customer service, honesty, transparency, and expertise is amazing!Thanks so so so much guys for making my day great and leaving with a huge smile.
Date: May 29, 2025
Website: Google
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