FAULTBASE
NEWSASKCars
© 2025 FAULTBASE
All rights reserved.
v2.0.0 • Production
ContactPrivacyImpressum
Home/Cars/Volvo/XC90/Second Generation (2015-2024)/how to fix the rough transmission shifting in my Volvo XC90

how to fix the rough transmission shifting in my Volvo XC90

Volvo XC90 Second Generation (2015-2024)

Severity: highDifficulty: medium2-4 hours
3 min read
581 words

⚠️ Safety Warning

This issue requires immediate attention. If you are not experienced with automotive repairs, consult a professional mechanic. Working on critical systems can be dangerous.

Problem Statement

Learn how to diagnose and fix rough transmission shifting in your Volvo XC90. Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair instructions.

Component
Transmission
Repair Time
2-4 hours

Safety Warnings

  • ⚠Disconnect the battery before working on electrical components.
  • ⚠Allow the engine to cool before opening the transmission system.

Symptoms

  • •Harsh or jerky shifts between gears
  • •Delayed engagement when shifting from park to drive or reverse
  • •Unusual noise during shifting (clunking or grinding)
  • •Check engine light illuminated (potential transmission-related codes)
  • •Decreased fuel efficiency
  • •Transmission fluid leak under the vehicle

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1Scan the vehicle's onboard computer using an OBD-II scanner for any transmission-related error codes.
  2. 2Check the transmission fluid level and condition (color and smell).
  3. 3Inspect the transmission fluid for contamination or metal shavings.
  4. 4Examine the transmission mount for wear or damage.
  5. 5Test drive the vehicle to replicate the shifting issue and note the conditions under which it occurs.
  6. 6Inspect the throttle position sensor and transmission control module for proper function.

Solution

Solution

1. Preparation

  • Gather tools and parts required for the repair.
  • Ensure the vehicle is parked on a level surface and engage the parking brake.

2. Check and Replace Transmission Fluid

  • Sub-steps:
    1. Remove the transmission fluid dipstick and wipe it clean.
    2. Insert the dipstick back and remove it again to check the fluid level. If low, add the appropriate transmission fluid (refer to the owner's manual).
    3. If the fluid is dirty or burnt, prepare to replace the fluid.
  • Tools Required: Funnel, clean rags, transmission fluid.

3. Change Transmission Filter

  • Sub-steps:
    1. Place a drain pan under the transmission pan and remove the pan bolts to drain old fluid.
    2. Remove the transmission pan and take out the old filter.
    3. Install the new filter and reattach the transmission pan using a new gasket or sealant (as required).
    4. Tighten the bolts to the manufacturer’s specified torque.
  • Tools Required: Socket set, torque wrench, new transmission filter, and gasket.

4. Inspect and Replace Transmission Mount (if necessary)

  • Sub-steps:
    1. Visually inspect the transmission mount for cracks or excessive wear.
    2. If damaged, unbolt the transmission mount from the chassis and transmission.
    3. Replace with a new mount and torque to manufacturer specifications.
  • Tools Required: Socket set, torque wrench.

5. Reconnect Battery and Test Drive

  • Sub-steps:
    1. Reconnect the vehicle's battery.
    2. Start the engine and allow it to warm up.
    3. Test drive the vehicle to ensure smooth shifting and verify that the issue is resolved.
  • Safety Warnings: Ensure the vehicle is in park before reconnecting the battery.

Verification

After completing the repair, verify that the issue has been resolved:

  • Test the affected component to ensure it functions correctly
  • Check for any error codes or warning lights
  • Monitor the vehicle for a few days to ensure the issue does not recur

Prevention Tips

To prevent this issue from occurring again:

  • •Follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule
  • •Address warning signs early before they develop into major issues
  • •Use quality parts and fluids recommended for your vehicle
  • •Keep detailed records of all repairs and maintenance

Tools & Equipment Required

  • OBD-II scanner
  • Socket set
  • Torque wrench
  • Funnel
  • Clean rags
  • Transmission fluid
  • New transmission filter
  • Gasket

Parts Required

  • Transmission fluid
  • Transmission filter
  • Gasket (if applicable)
  • Transmission mount (if applicable)

Additional Information

Component

Transmission

Repair Time

2-4 hours

Difficulty

medium

Severity

high

Tools

8 items

Parts

4 items

Related Faults

Discover similar issues

  1. why does my Volvo XC90 vibrate when braking at high speeds

    Learn how to diagnose and fix braking vibrations in your Volvo XC90. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructions.

    Component:Brakes
    Symptoms
    • •Vibration felt in the steering wheel when braking
    • •Pulsating brake pedal
    • +{count} more
  2. how to fix my Volvo XC90 brake light staying on

    Learn how to diagnose and fix the brake light staying on in your Volvo XC90. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructions.

    Component:Brakes
    Symptoms
    • •Brake light remains on when ignition is off
    • •Warning light on the dashboard indicating a brake system issue
    • +{count} more
  3. how do I fix a black screen on my Volvo XC90 backup camera?

    Learn how to diagnose and fix a black screen on the backup camera of your Volvo XC90. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instruc...

    Component:Electrical
    Symptoms
    • •Black screen when the vehicle is in reverse
    • •Camera feed flickers or is completely absent
    • +{count} more
  4. why is my Volvo XC90 check engine light flashing

    Learn how to diagnose and fix a flashing check engine light on your Volvo XC90. Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair instruc...

    Component:Engine
    Symptoms
    • •Flashing check engine light
    • •Rough idle
    • +{count} more
  5. why is my Volvo XC90 ABS light on and traction control disabled

    Learn how to diagnose and fix the ABS light and traction control issues in your Volvo XC90. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair i...

    Component:Brakes
    Symptoms
    • •ABS warning light illuminated on the dashboard
    • •Traction control warning light illuminated or disabled
    • +{count} more
  6. my Volvo XC90 battery dies overnight, what could be causing this

    Learn how to diagnose and fix battery discharge issues in Volvo XC90. Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair instructions.

    Component:Electrical
    Symptoms
    • •Battery warning light illuminated on the dashboard
    • •Difficulty starting the vehicle in the morning
    • +{count} more

Share this solution

Comments

Sign in to share your thoughts

Sign In

No comments yet

Be the first to share your thoughts

Back to Generation