2002 L100 automatic transmission light throttle shift shudder

[Allbert]

My 2002 Saturn L100 (2.2L / auto, 45k miles) has always had a really firm 1-2 upshift at light throttle when cool, but it recently started to shudder on light throttle (<15%) 2-1 downshifts. Today in traffic, it even shuddered a bit on a really light throttle (almost coasting) 2-3 upshift. Does anyone have any suggestions (i.e., change trans oil/filter, new pressure control solenoid, ???)?

[sierrap615]

it sounds like you know more about autos then i do, i would guess a fuild change may help, but honistly i don't know. you may want to ask on saturnfans.com

[Allbert]

Originally Posted by sierrap615

it sounds like you know more about autos then i do, i would guess a fuild change may help, but honistly i don't know. you may want to ask on saturnfans.com

Thanks for the reference... I'll check it out.

[Allbert]

Originally Posted by Allbert

My 2002 Saturn L100 (2.2L / auto, 45k miles) has always had a really firm 1-2 upshift at light throttle when cool, but it recently started to shudder on light throttle (<15%) 2-1 downshifts. Today in traffic, it even shuddered a bit on a really light throttle (almost coasting) 2-3 upshift. Does anyone have any suggestions (i.e., change trans oil/filter, new pressure control solenoid, ???)?

Well, it's been a while, but I finally got around to fixing the trans issue mentioned above, hopefully before any significant damage was done. Earlier this week, I replaced the pressure control solenoid (PCS, GM part # 10478146) with a BorgWarner (prototype) aftermarket solenoid. All the issues are are now gone... shifts are smooth and decisive, and I have not been able to induce any shuddering under any conditions. The task of replacing the solenoid was rather involved, but doing it myself saved about $250 in labor according to the local trans repair shop.