Transmission Shift Patterns

Upshifts

Transmission upshifting is controlled by the powertrain control module. The PCM receives inputs from various engine or vehicle sensors and driver demands to control shift scheduling, shift feel and torque converter clutch operation.

Downshifts

Under certain conditions the transmission will downshift automatically to a lower gear range (without moving the range selector lever). There are three categories of automatic downshifts: coastdown, torque demand and forced or kickdown shifts.

Coastdown

The coastdown downshift occurs, as the name indicates, when the vehicle is coasting down to a stop.

Torque Demand

The torque demand downshift occurs (automatically) during part throttle acceleration when the demand for torque is greater than the engine can provide at that gear ratio. The transmission will disengage the torque converter clutch to provide added acceleration, if applied.

Kickdown

For maximum acceleration, the driver can force a downshift by pressing the accelerator pedal to the floor. A forced downshift into a lower gear (3rd, 2nd or 1st) is possible below calibrated speeds. For all shift speeds, specifications are subject to variations due to tire size, engine and transmission calibration requirements.