42RLE shifting problems: Taking too long to shift

Triple Chico

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Original poster
Joined
Aug 22, 2019
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13
Location
Long Island, NY
Hi.. my 06 LJ is having transmission problems. Takes too long to shift from 1st to 2nd. Then when it does, it’s a hard shift. Then again to 3rd, but not as bad. Can anybody suggest something?
 
Could be the PCM. There are several threads detailing the issue. It is a known problem of the 05-06 autos.
 
Start your engine, shift through all the gears, then with the engine still running check its ATF level with the transmission dipstick. The engine MUST be running while you check the transmission's ATF level.

If it's low, add ATF+4 to get it full. Add nothing but ATF+4, no other type of ATF is correct.

If the ATF level is full it could be from a bad PCM which has known problems in 2005-2006.
 
Thank you. I think it made a difference. I noticed it’s better. Can you point me in the direction of some sort of DIY book or manual to work on my LJ? I’m looking to know how and where to grease areas, upgrade parts, do regular maintenance, that sort of stuff. I want to learn and do stuff, just don’t know where to get started.
 
As a further check, use a scanner that can read transmission codes. If you see P0218 and/or P0714, you likely have the PCM issue that plagues some ‘05-‘06 automatics (including mine!). These codes do not trigger the CEL. If you do have these codes, call Wrangler Fix as suggested above.

Another quick way to check the PCM.....disconnect the battery for a short while. After you re-connect it, if shifting is smooth, that’s another sign that your PCM is faulty. The hard shifting will return in a few days. Again, call Wrangler Fix!
 
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Thank you. I think it made a difference. I noticed it’s better. Can you point me in the direction of some sort of DIY book or manual to work on my LJ? I’m looking to know how and where to grease areas, upgrade parts, do regular maintenance, that sort of stuff. I want to learn and do stuff, just don’t know where to get started.
You have found the best source for information available. Use the search feature and you will usually find what you need. Along the way you will learn things you didn't even think you needed to know.
Working on a Jeep is half the fun of owning one. Start off checking and replacing the basics. Above all start with the brake system. New rotors, pads and fluid are cheap. Check the steering knuckles for wear and divots. If they look old toss on some new brake lines while your there. I also always recommend changing wheel studs. You have known idea how many people have over tourqued them. Then just do your basic maintenance items and decide what you want to do with it. Build it or keep it mostly stock. If you get stuck and haven't found the answer searching there are a lot of good folks here that will try to help you out.
 
Thank you. I think it made a difference. I noticed it’s better. Can you point me in the direction of some sort of DIY book or manual to work on my LJ? I’m looking to know how and where to grease areas, upgrade parts, do regular maintenance, that sort of stuff. I want to learn and do stuff, just don’t know where to get started.
Here you go, dude. Nice looking rig. welcome to the forum.
https://wranglertjforum.com/attachments/2006-tj-service-manual-pdf.14047/
 
Thanks everybody. This forum has been helpful. I will try Everything you all suggested. I’ve never been into working on cars before. Most I did was change oil. Wish I had started when I was younger.
 
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