Possible Causes of Hard Shifting:
* Low Transmission Fluid: This is the easiest and cheapest thing to check first. Low fluid leads to insufficient lubrication and can cause hard shifting. Check the fluid level (with the engine running and warmed up) and top it off with the correct type of fluid (consult your owner's manual). If the fluid is also dark, burnt, or smells burnt, it needs to be changed.
* Dirty or Worn Transmission Filter: A clogged filter restricts fluid flow, causing hard shifting. A transmission fluid and filter change are often recommended together.
* Worn Clutch Packs or Bands: These are internal components that wear out over time. This is a more serious issue requiring a transmission rebuild or replacement. Symptoms often include slipping in addition to hard shifting.
* Solenoids or Valve Body Problems: These are electrical components that control fluid flow within the transmission. A malfunctioning solenoid or valve body can cause hard shifting. This often requires diagnosis and replacement of the faulty parts, possibly requiring removal and disassembly of the transmission.
* Torque Converter Issues: The torque converter acts as a fluid coupling between the engine and transmission. Problems with it can also lead to hard shifting. This is another major repair.
* Worn or Damaged Internal Gears or Shafts: This is usually a result of prolonged neglect or abuse and is a major repair, often necessitating a rebuild or replacement.
Fixing the Hard Shifting:
1. Start with the basics: Check and change the transmission fluid and filter. This is the least expensive option and might solve the problem.
2. Professional Diagnosis: If changing the fluid and filter doesn't help, take your Crown Vic to a reputable transmission specialist or mechanic. They have the tools and expertise to diagnose the problem accurately. They might perform a road test and use a scan tool to check for transmission codes.
3. Repair or Replacement: Depending on the diagnosis, the repair could involve replacing worn parts, rebuilding the transmission, or replacing it entirely. A rebuild is often less expensive than a replacement, but both are significant expenses.
Cost Considerations:
* Fluid and filter change: Relatively inexpensive.
* Solenoid or valve body replacement: Moderate cost.
* Transmission rebuild: Expensive.
* Transmission replacement: Very expensive.
In short: Hard shifting *can* be fixed, but the cost and complexity vary greatly depending on the cause. Get a professional diagnosis before undertaking any major repairs. Ignoring the problem will likely lead to more extensive and costly damage down the road.
