Thread: Harsh down shift in sport mode... normal?

Originally Posted by Spence

So when I’m in sport mode (not using paddle shift) then break hard, the downshifts are quite harsh. A bit violent sometimes. Just wondering if the experts know if this is a Land Rover thing, or is there a problem somewhere? also a tiny bit of play when taking off, and a tiny clunk going into reverse. Cheers blokes.

2014, 8 speed, 1100ks.

Has it had a fluid/filter change ?

Originally Posted by loanrangie

Has it had a fluid/filter change ?

Yes mate, at its last service.

Originally Posted by Spence

So when I’m in sport mode (not using paddle shift) then break hard, the downshifts are quite harsh. A bit violent sometimes. Just wondering if the experts know if this is a Land Rover thing, or is there a problem somewhere? also a tiny bit of play when taking off, and a tiny clunk going into reverse. Cheers blokes.

2014, 8 speed, 1100ks.

How many kms on the car? Im assuming from your signature it's around 110,000km. You will need to reset the adaptations in the transmission to factory after a fluid change, the mechatronic adapts the solenoid opening and closing based on line pressure as the fluid ages and gets contaminated, the pressure changes.

Worsy case the valve body is full of gunk (a flush doesnt get it all out), the accumulators and end seals in each valve line are probably worn, causing pressure fluctuations and harsh shifts.

Check out the Sonnax website for more info. A valve body gen2 zip kit and new solenoids will solve it.

Originally Posted by Eric SDV6SE

How many kms on the car? Im assuming from your signature it's around 110,000km. You will need to reset the adaptations in the transmission to factory after a fluid change, the mechatronic adapts the solenoid opening and closing based on line pressure as the fluid ages and gets contaminated, the pressure changes.

Worsy case the valve body is full of gunk (a flush doesnt get it all out), the accumulators and end seals in each valve line are probably worn, causing pressure fluctuations and harsh shifts.

Check out the Sonnax website for more info. A valve body gen2 zip kit and new solenoids will solve it.

Excellent advice. I will look into it, as it annoys me good and proper.

Originally Posted by Eric SDV6SE

How many kms on the car? Im assuming from your signature it's around 110,000km. You will need to reset the adaptations in the transmission to factory after a fluid change, the mechatronic adapts the solenoid opening and closing based on line pressure as the fluid ages and gets contaminated, the pressure changes.

Worsy case the valve body is full of gunk (a flush doesnt get it all out), the accumulators and end seals in each valve line are probably worn, causing pressure fluctuations and harsh shifts.

Check out the Sonnax website for more info. A valve body gen2 zip kit and new solenoids will solve it.

Are they readily available for the ZF8 ?

Also,why would this only happen in sports mode?

Originally Posted by Spence

Also,why would this only happen in sports mode?

I believe it uses higher line pressures and holds the gears longer.

Originally Posted by loanrangie

I believe it uses higher line pressures and holds the gears longer.

Yep, makes sense.