Hyundai Repair: Hyundai Sonata Auto 96 Australia, hyundai sonata, forward gears

Question
Hi my sonata,is automatic but when starting off its gears seem to slip especially going up hill all of a sudden it clicks into 2nd and off it goes, its worse uphill but on the flat its not so bad but still happens, i reversed up a hill the other day and was so slow with sound of backfiring / popping as well. Once the gear has clicked into 2nd it seems to go fine until i start to change down?

Cheers

mark

Answer
Because you describe backfiring and popping, I have some concern that you may have an engine performance issue that causes you to think the transmission is slipping.  If that's the case, it should apply in reverse as well as first gear.  If your problem exists only in forward gears, it's probably with the transmission.

Unfortunately, the transmission in your vehicle isn't known for being particularly reliable.  If it is indeed slipping, you'll most likely need a transmission overhaul or replacement.  If you'd consider spending the money to make that repair, you should have an honest and competent shop check the vehicle.  Although remote, there are other possibilities that could be causing your problem.