transmission?

My 2003 Ford Focus ZTS hesitates when shifting. Automatic transmission. I step on the gas, normally, it hesitates when trying to shift and the RPMS jump up to about 3 or 4 while it tries to shif. Once I hit 4th, on the highway, it seems ok.

It has 33,000 miles on it. I bought it brand new. I have kept up with all maintenance recommendations. Oil change and rotate tires every 5,000 miles. Had it maintenance serviced at 15 and 30 thousand miles - according to the manual.

This just happened after the 30,000 maintenance. I took it into the dealer and they ran diagnostics twice - nothing. Test drove it. Nothing remarkable. They said they couldn't find a thing wrong with it.

Today, almost a week later, it started again now worse. It has run like a dream until now. I'm thinking the dealer mechanics are not with it. They've HAD a turnover in staff since I bought the vehicle.

Can anyone suggest anything. Like, what to suggest to the mechanics when I take it back. A response is greatly appreciated.

Im not all to familiar with the Automatic transmissions in the focus but depending what your willing to do Id get a flasher or a SCT chip and have them reprogram your ATX shift settings.....

As for an easy solution my mazda miata has some issues occassionally with shifting and i find that as I approach the point to where it usually shifts i punch the gas slightly and it engages the next gear quicker. Just a thought worth a shot :-)

:edit:

You could also have them check the transmission fluid just to make sure it isnt gunking up on you that could cause the issue and lead to more severe issues if it isnt delt with (ie: blown out transmission)