not running smooth in lower gears

2001 altima; When in third and fourth gear I get a slight hesitation or jolt periodically. This seems to happen only when the rpms are high, right before shifting to higher gear. When in 5th the car runs smoothly. Is there something specific that would be causing this?

The Cam Position Sensor is one posssibility. Is the service engine soon light on?

no, the check engine has never come on. The strange thing about it is that it doesn't happen all the time- it's not consistent. Started to notice it happening during a rain storm. I don't know if that's a coincidence or something that attributed to the problem.

Hi, I have a 1995 nissan altima and I had the same problem. I got it checked from 2 different workshops both diagnosed a transmission problem. It is suggested that for such a problem u should go in for the needed repair asap however the labour cost alone for such a job are upto $900 and the total job cost could be upto $1500 depending upon the tranny damage.

Transmissions can easily cost $2000-$3000. I don't think that is your problem. The on board diagnostic system on your '01 is much more sophisticated than Altimas previos to late '97s. Your service eng light would be on if there were an auto transmission problem and would probably lock in 3rd speed only. What I think you are describing is just like the ign switch were quickly turned off and back on. The problem is occuring when you are accellerating while the ignition system is under extra load. The rain and wind probably increased the load during accelleration. I don't think getting wet is the problem. Many ignition system manufactures are useing a built-in backup system that does what is described as a hic-up when it switches from a defective primary and is picked up by the secondary.