Shift Condition Definitions

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 GMC Sierra, 2004 GMC Cab & Chassis Sierra, 2004 Chevrolet Silverado, and 2004 Chevrolet Cab & Chassis Silverado. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Bump: A sudden and forceful apply of a clutch.
Delayed: A shift was expected but did not occur for several seconds, as during a manual downshift or WOT detent downshift. May also be defined as Late or Extended.
Double Bump: Two bumps felt during a clutch apply.
Early: Shift occurs at lower speed than expected, often accompanied by engine laboring after an upshift.
End Bump: A firmer feel at the end of a shift than at the start of a shift.
Firm: A noticeably quick apply of a clutch at medium or heavy throttle conditions. DO NOT confuse with Harsh or Rough.
Flare: A quick increase in engine speed along with a momentary loss of torque during a shift transition. This condition may also be defined as Slipping.
Harsh (Rough): More noticeable clutch apply than Firm. Considered unacceptable at any throttle position.
Hunting: A repeating quick series of upshifts and downshifts that causes a noticeable change in engine speed (such as 4-3-4, etc.). Sometimes defined as Cycling.
Initial Feel: A distinctly firmer feel at the start of a shift than at the finish of a shift.
Late: A shift that occurs at a higher speed than normal for a given throttle position.
Shudder: Multiple, rapid jerks usually associated with an oncoming clutch.
Slipping: A noticeable increase in engine speed without an increase in vehicle speed. Usually occurs just after the initial application of a clutch.
Soft: A slow, almost unnoticeable clutch apply.
Surge: A repeating engine-related condition of acceleration and deceleration that is less intense than Shudder.
Tie-up: A condition where two opposing clutches (usually one oncoming and one offgoing) are applied at the same time. Gives a braking sensation and/or loss of engine speed.