INSPECTION PROCEDURE 3: Hard Shifting: Diagnosis

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2005 Dodge Stratus. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

STEP 1. Check the transaxle control
Q: Are the shift cable and the select cable in good condition?

YES : Go to Step 2.

NO: Repair or replace the shift cable and the select cable. Refer to TRANSAXLE CONTROL . Then go to Step 7.
STEP 2. Check the transaxle oil.
Q: Is the oil dirty?

YES : Replace the oil. Refer to ON-VEHICLE SERVICE . Then go to Step 7.

NO: Go to Step 3.
STEP 3. Check the clutch system.
Q: Is the clutch system normal?

YES : Go to Step 4.

NO: Repair or replace the clutch system. Refer to ON-VEHICLE SERVICE - COUPE . Then go to Step 7.
STEP 4. Remove and disassemble the transaxle. Check the control housing.
Q: Is the control housing in good condition?

YES : Go to Step 5.

NO: Repair or replace the control housing. Refer to TRANSAXLE . Then go to Step 7.
STEP 5. Check for poor meshing of worn synchronizer ring and gear cone.
Q: Is poor meshing or worn synchronizer ring and gear cone found?

YES : Repair or replace the synchronizer ring and gear cone. Then go to Step 7.

NO: Go to Step 6.
STEP 6. Check the synchronizer spring for weakness.
Q: Is the synchronizer spring weak?

YES : Replace the synchronizer spring. Then go to Step 7.

NO: Go to Step 7.
STEP 7. Retest the system.
Q: Is the shifting of the gears still hard?

YES : Return to Step 1.

NO: The procedure is complete.