Possible causes of automatic transmission kicking when shifting gears:
1. Low or contaminated transmission fluid (ATF)
* ATF provides lubrication and cooling to the inside of the transmission and can become worn or contaminated over time.
* Low or contaminated ATF can lead to oil starvation and increased wear, causing kicking.
2. Worn or faulty transmission components
* Worn friction discs, solenoids, valve body or other components can cause slipping or delays in shifting, resulting in kicking.
3. Incorrect setup or faulty electronics
* The automatic transmission is controlled by electronic modules that may malfunction or require adjustment.
* Faulty electronics can cause irregular gear shifts and kicking.
4. Problems with sensors
* Sensors such as the speed or engine speed sensor provide information to the transmission control module (TCM) to shift gears correctly.
* Faulty sensors may transmit incorrect data, resulting in kicking.
5. Incorrectly selected ATF
*Using the wrong type or quality of ATF can cause slipping or delayed shifting, causing kicking.
6. Mechatronics malfunction
* Mechatronics is an electro-hydraulic unit that controls gear shifting in the DSG (double-clutch robotic gearbox).
* Faulty mechatronics can cause harsh gear changes or kicking.
7. Worn engine and transmission mounts
* Worn engine and transmission mounts can allow the engine and transmission to move too much during gear changes, causing kicking.
8. Engine torque problems
* A malfunction in the fuel injection system, ignition system or other engine-related systems can cause torque fluctuations, resulting in kicking when shifting gears.