I have a 2000 XK8 with the ZF 5-speed automatic. In normal mode, it upshifts pretty quickly in normal driving, and I find myself almost lugging along in 5th gear before I know it. It also seems reluctant to downshift unless I push the gas pedal all the way to the floor. Sport mode works as it should. I read in a recent post that a hard reset will restore the factory shift settings, which are more aggresive than what I'm experiencing.


Can anyone confirm that this is the way to restore a more reasonable shifting pattern, and suggest a way to keep it from "learning" to upshift too quickly?


Thanks.

 

Assuming the issue is a learning error, the hard reset will "unlearn" it. It will then try to relearn based on the way you drive. Not sure how far that is, but at least 100 miles I suspect.

Try driving a little more aggressively for a while after the reset and see if that cures your issue. The fact that it is OK in sport mode makes me think it will. If your transmission had bigger issues, sport mode would not likely make it better.

Also, check your throttle cable. If there is too much slack there it will make it seem as if you are driving less aggressive and you'll start the cycle all over. That would also contribute to the need to floor it to get it to downshift.

Plenty of threads on the forum on how to adjust the throttle cable in case that is required. Very simple fix.

 

Hi Mike,


Thanks confirming the use of a hard reset to address my problem; I'm going to give it a try today. I had already adjusted the throttle cable, and there is no hesitation when I accelerate from idle. I think I might try adjusting the "stop" underneath the gas pedal (my model year doesn't have a kickdown switch in that location) to see if it will downshift a little quicker when I get on it.


Max

 

Well, I did the hard reset and drove the car fairly aggressively for about 200 miles. It feels a little better, but that's a subjective judgement on my part. Probably best just to keep my mouth shut and enjoy driving it.

 

Just as a test try unplugging the MAF, do a reset (don't forget to put the Ign switch in pos'n 2 when you touch the cables and off when you reconnect the battery). If the gearbox problems and upshift are fixed then it's the MAF.

 

Simple solution....do a hard reset and then:
1. Buy a full-face racing helmet.
2. Buy life insurance.
3. Get into your car a drive it like you stole it for at least an hour.
4. Don't stop until the tires are smoking and your brakes are glowing red-hot.
5. Buy new tires and brakes and enjoy your ride.

 

I like it! I can picture myself climbing out of the car, which is surrounded by a cloud of tire and brake smoke, then casually removing my helmet and walking away with a slight smile on my face.


And then I wake up!