Transmission

[Getald Savoy]

Just bought 2011 RX350 168,000 miles. Transmission jerks between first and second gears at 20mph. After this, everything is fine.

What could this be?

Thank you

[RX400h]

Quote

The jerking you’re experiencing when your 2011 Lexus RX350 shifts between first and second gears at 20mph could be due to a few potential issues:

1. Transmission Fluid: If the transmission fluid is old or not at the proper level, it could cause hard shifts. Checking the transmission fluid dipstick could give you an idea about the condition of the fluid.

2. Gear Ratios: Incorrect gear ratios could also cause hard shifts¹.

3. Shift Solenoid: A faulty shift solenoid could lead to jerky acceleration and potential damage to the transmission.

4. Torque Converter: If the torque converter fails, it can cause heavy jerking in certain conditions, often between the first and second gears³. The torque converter has friction plates that act as a simple clutch and can have issues with lubrication and cooling.

It’s recommended to have your vehicle inspected by a professional mechanic to accurately diagnose and fix the issue. They might suggest checking the transmission fluid, inspecting for excess metal shavings, changing the filter, and refilling with Toyota WS trans fluid². Please note that these are just potential causes and the actual issue might be different. It’s always best to consult with a professional.