2004 Pathfinder Shifting Lag

[Moe Norman]

I recently purchased a 2004 Pathfinder with 35,000 miles on it (automatic trans). There is a noticeable "lag" or "lull" when it shifts into third gear. It almost feels like it's slipping for a split second. It only happens (or is only noticeable) when I'm accelerating at a decent rate, as I would when getting on to the highway. When I'm gradually getting up to 30mph, there nothing noticeable.

A friend of mine who used to own a Nissan pickup said that it is typical for foreign trucks. However, the only truck I've owned was a Cherokee. A guy I work with said it has something to do with the Overdrive function.

Does anyone have any insight into this? Is there any truth to what my friend said?

Any information would be appreciated. I can still bring the truck back to the dealer and get them to fix it.

[88pathoffroad]

I don't know if the TSB about the transmission control module applies to your year, but it may be worth looking into. 01's have a service bulletin out about poor shifting being due to faulty or misprogrammed TCU's. The fix is to replace the TCU.

[mr-realtor]

In my 2003, the previous owner had taken it in for the same thing though no issues were found. It happened to me and I serviced the transmission and it went away and has maybe happened once since then but only getting on the highway and it sticks in 3rd gear briefly before shifting.