I have a 2004 V70 2.5T w/ the autostick 5 spd transmission. The car has 49k miles. On rare occasions, when the transmission downshifts, it refuses to shift up with acceleration. As an example, this weekend, it downshifted to go up a steep hill. When I topped the hill, it refused to shift out of the lower gear (and rpm increased.) When I let off of gas, it just slowed down due to the low gear. There was no warning light to indicate a problem. The problem only happens sporadically.

I have taken to dealer once after it happened on freeway. Dealer said no fault codes showed up, and that transmission appeared to be working properly. I have already received a software download due to slipping b/n 2nd and 3rd gears.

Anyone else have this problem? Suggestions on what might be the problem? I want to be educated when I return to dealer!

If the tranny fluid gets too hot, it will downshift and stay in 4th until it cools off. This happens a lot when people are towing trailers. It is a fail safe feature.

Klaus
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1975 164 w/174,800mi (Sold) 1995 850T w/91,000mi, 1998 V70R w/129,000mi

Thanks. It is sticking in 3rd. You think it could still be related to temperature?

Because the car is still under warranty, can you re-create the problem for the dealer? Just because there are no "codes" does not mean there isn't a problem. The dealer may be stalling untill you pass the 50K mark.
3rd gear is NOT the cool down mode for a 5 speed auto. It is in my V70 with the 4 speed.
I find it very disconcerting that the tranny used to hunt between 2 and 3. Perhaps the "new" software is causing it's own problem. Ask the dealer if it is possible that the TCU is bad. Also have him check the temp of the fluid when the tranny is "hot".

Klaus
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1975 164 w/174,800mi (Sold) 1995 850T w/91,000mi, 1998 V70R w/129,000mi

Thank you for the insight and advice! I will post re dealer response.