The Chrysler transmission bump shift describes a condition when Chrysler transmissions shift harshly from one gear to another when downshifting, for example, from fourth to third or third to second gear. It may be simple to fix or require extensive work.
In some cases, the wrong type of transmission fluid can cause Chrysler transmissions to bump shift. In other cases, it may be a computer malfunction or a problem with the underdrive clutch.
Changing transmission fluid to one of Chrysler's recommended types may be enough to solve some bump shift problems. Sometimes, however, the fluid is only a part of the problem and a more complicated fix is required.
Sometimes, Chrysler transmissions with bump shift problems need to have the computer retrained to correctly recalibrate the shift points. This requires disconnecting the battery to erase the computer's memory and then repeatedly driving the vehicle with steady throttle position as it accelerates through all four gears, then performing kickdowns -- downshifts caused by pushing the accelerator to the floor -- to help the transmission relearn the correct shift points.
When the bump shifts in a Chrysler transmission are the result of a problem with the underdrive clutch, changing the transmission fluid or retraining the transmission will not alleviate the problem. In this case, rebuilding the transmission is required.
