Slipping and Hard Shifts from Automatic Transmission on Volvo S40

The Volvo S40 from 2011-2012 is known to have issues with hard shifts and transmission slippage on models equipped with the six speed automatic transmission. When the transmission gets warm, the issues is most noticeable as a hesitation to shift, followed by jerking or jolting into the next gear.

The hard shifting and transmission slipping is commonly a result of software inadequacies, which do not account for all variables as the transmission heats to normal operating conditions. In some cases, the automatic transmission may be suffering from a damaged valve body or faulty shift solenoids.

Software updates from the manufacturer of this transmission have solved many reported complaints, but not all. In cases where software updates to the transmission controller have failed, the transmission will likely need valve body replacement, shift solenoid testing and replacement, or even a complete rebuild.

Since the transmission is sealed for life, the fluid is not normally considered a suspected cause, but many technicians recommend changing the transmission specific automatic transmission fluid at normal intervals.