Why is my Land Rover’s transmission slipping, jerking, o r hesitating during gear changes?

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Why is my Land Rover’s transmission slipping, jerking, o r hesitating during gear changes?

My Land Rover Range Rover, Discovery, o r Freelander hesitates, jerks, o r feels like it “slips” when shifting between gears, especially when accelerating in city traffic o r climbing hills. Sometimes it feels like the engine revs but the car doesn’t move smoothly. What are the most common transmission causes for this behavior e.g., low transmission fluid, worn clutch packs, solenoid issues, ECU faults? How can I identify whether it’s a fluid problem versus a mechanical o r electronic transmission fault before visiting a mechanic?

Talha Kyanii asked on 11 Dec 2025 13:24:33 pm

1 Answer

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Gari Master - on 11 Dec 2025 13:26:27 pm

Transmission overheating o r warning messages in Land Rovers are usually caused by issues in the automatic transmission system, which is sensitive to fluid condition, electronic control, and driving conditions. Common causes include:

Low o r dirty transmission fluid

Transmission fluid lubricates, cools, and transmits hydraulic pressure.

In Pakistan’s hot climate and heavy traffic, old o r low fluid can overheat the transmission.

Check the fluid level and condition: it should be clean, reddish, and have a mild sweet smell. Dark o r burnt-smelling fluid indicates a problem.

Blocked o r malfunctioning transmission cooler

The cooler helps reduce fluid temperature.

Dust, mud, o r leaks in the cooler especially if you drive on off-road o r dusty roads can cause overheating.

Ensure the cooler and surrounding fins are clean and not leaking.

Internal transmission wear o r mechanical faults

Worn clutch packs, torque converter problems, o r other internal damage can increase heat and trigger warning messages.

Symptoms may include delayed o r harsh shifts, slipping, o r shuddering.

Electronic o r sensor issues

Land Rovers rely on sensors and the Transmission Control Module TCM to regulate shifts.

Faulty temperature sensors o r software glitches can trigger the “Transmission Service Soon” warning even if mechanical issues are minor.

Heavy load o r off-road driving

Continuous steep climbs, towing, o r off-road driving in Pakistan can overwork the transmission and cause temporary overheating.