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transmission problems???

53K views 68 replies 28 participants last post by  tennismfr  
#1 ·
has anybody had transmission problems in any of the models?
I have a base model and the tranny sims to "jerk" back and forth around 3rd and 4rth when you slowing down and had to resume speed,
I took it to the dealer and the mechanic said "thats normal" some how I don't buy it, anybody else had this problem?
 
#2 ·
Well, it's throttle by wire and a torque converter automatic. The ZF is a fine gearbox so I doubt you are in any trouble there. More likely, the throttle signal AND brake by wire signals are a little flaky around those speeds, gears, rpms. Keep an eye on it and be a smooth as you can with your foot pressure. If it continues to be a problem, be a little more generous with your foot. Digital systems have a way of being stuttery around a threshold value. Think database map or number in a chart box. You want to offer enough input that the computer has no doubt as to your intent. A key skill in running an F1 robotic manual, which this is NOT, but shares similar sensors. Drive it and practice.;)
 
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#3 ·
i have had low throttle response in N mode in a 200hp when braking hard to enter a roundabout and then attempting to accelerate out ... sometimes ... twice in all in fact, every other time has been ok, ... i can feel i wont get a good response, so i lay off the throttle and let the computer catch up to what i want to do rather than force it to a higher than necessary rev (still running in )

i have had a bit of a shudder at times when the car is getting confused with a "change-up/ change-down, what the flip do you want to do" response from the car,

it all appears to be just the combination of all the whizzbangery that John K knows a lot more about

just take it easy when it happens and let the car learn your driving habits, youre not causing it any damage, but like John said, a bit more throttle is all it needs,
 
#6 ·
I have noted that while driving in D, the shifting is quicker and more abrupt, and I feel a little "thump" when the transmission shifts. In N up and down shifting are really smooth.


This is my first automatic ever, except for my wife's SUVs. I was really reluctant but I am very impressed now. I still miss that third pedal, heel and toe, and that feeling of total control of a manual. I guess we can't stop progress. (On week ends I go back in time driving my "down to earth" 1993 RS America :laugh:)
 
#8 ·
Great points guys. And hearing about the rotary entry and exit is helpful too. I find similar effects on the robotic F1 and entire traction control system. I am pretty sure there are some functions that are not disabled even though you are in race mode or ASR off in the 360. Another factor is the VVT system on the Ferrari F131 engine. I notice that the most because you are always sandbagging around town and short shifting under 5K rpms. This means the cam adjusters are all extended to boost low end torque. The solenoids are controlled by the ecu, which reads rpm and throttle position. Throw in vibration, pitch changes, bumps in the road and the accelerometers for the anti-lock brakes and ASR and you can see how the system would have to "buffer" to keep up.

And you want the transmission to kick when you are driving more aggressively. That is part of the fun. Listen to the last of the V8 F1 cars bang through the gears. That's paddle shift heaven and I hope the ZF does well even if it's not technically a robotic manual. You can even hear the clutch bounce as it grabs the higher gears. "Bun-nun-nun-naaaa, bun-nun-nun-naaa, bun-nun-nun-naaaa!"
 
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#9 ·
Well, it's throttle by wire and a torque converter automatic. The ZF is a fine gearbox so I doubt you are in any trouble there. More likely, the throttle signal AND brake by wire signals are a little flaky around those speeds, gears, rpms. Keep an eye on it and be a smooth as you can with your foot pressure. If it continues to be a problem, be a little more generous with your foot. Digital systems have a way of being stuttery around a threshold value. Think database map or number in a chart box. You want to offer enough input that the computer has no doubt as to your intent. A key skill in running an F1 robotic manual, which this is NOT, but shares similar sensors. Drive it and practice.;)
John k is spot on and your computer will adapt to your driving style over time as well.
 
#11 ·
Hi Joe S, I have a Ti and the only time I get any sort of shifting issue is if I literally floor it from a stopped position.... that causes it to lurch a little as it winds from 1st through 4th... after there it's smooth sailing.. If I temper the throttle there is no issue and the car effortlessly changes gears... Sounds like something you want to monitor..
 
#12 ·
Chipps, thanks for the tip. Self learning is another computer trait. Good to know on the ZF. You should see a Ferrari F1 self learn after an ECU/TCU reset. Transformers! Pow-pow hydraulic action.
:D
 
#13 ·
This has not happened to me, 2500 miles in. You and your Soul must be one with the electronics...
all kidding aside hope you are not experiencing something not designed as intended.
Good Luck.
 
#17 · (Edited)
My guess is If the car had some miles on it and at one time it threw a Check Engine code; you still have to reset both the engine computer and transmission computer. Removing the EFI fuse and ETCS fuse does it on most cars, or disconnecting the negative battery cable 3-5 minutes. Otherwise slip the Tech $50 and tell him to reset everything to new with his machine so it learns your driving style from factory settings. Confused shifts in Normal mode is telltale signal that the vehicle requires a hard reset. Not sure what procedure is best for an Alfa so confirm all this the more savvy guys on this board check perhaps European forums before you start pulling fuses.
 
#18 ·
After reading all the posts, it seems that more than one have similar experiences. Not every Giulia, just some.

My question is, how does it shift while in manual mode?

Even if you don't have paddles, you can put it in a manual mode and shift with the joy stick.

Also, are we talking about the Ti only? Or is the base and Quad also effected. And then there's the AWD version vs the RWD version. The more facts the better.
 
#20 ·
Joe,

Ti, RWD with 19" Sport Package. Having similar issues, and no, it's not normal. Alfa thought it was the transmission. Here are all my "symptoms" with the car.

Only happens once car is warmed up.
Only happens at low RPMs, from 1200-1800.
Only after you have taken your foot off the accelerator and then resume.
Happens mostly when you accelerate gradually, i.e. normal.
Happens in Automatic or Manual mode.
Car appears to "stumble" or hesitate.
This even happens if you are in cruise control, tap the brakes, let the revs fall to about 1400, and then hit "resume."
Once the revs are up, it runs well.
It has happened in every gear from 4-8.
It happens with every driver, not just me.

First time in the shop, the tech couldn't figure it out. After a couple of weeks, they called me back in to reset the transmission. Once reset, problem still persists. Car is still at the shop. An engineer who will be in town for another car will take a look at the same time.
 
#22 ·
same!!

Ti Q4 w/19 Sport, 300 miles,--

I am having the same issues as described by the others. Seems to be at low speeds, when the RPMS drop under 1800 or so. Upon resuming the accelerator the car will sputter/jerk before taking off. This happens the most in A mode but persists (maybe less) in N and D modes. i also notice some inconsistencies in manual mode when accelerating in a similar fashion while in gears 2, 3, or 4.

I d/c'd the battery today and tested it out and the problem remains. Doesn't feel very good.

Anyone find anything out yet??
 
#24 ·
It's still in the shop. They tested the fuel pressure, and it was ok. Then they ran some more diagnostics and sent reams of data to Alfa, who haven't figured it out yet.

This is day 12 in the shop on this go-round. It was in the shop 15 days previously for a burned out amplifier. Out of my two month's of ownership, I've had the car about a month, and none-of it trouble-free.
 
#25 ·
It's still in the shop. They tested the fuel pressure, and it was ok. Then they ran some more diagnostics and sent reams of data to Alfa, who haven't figured it out yet.

This is day 12 in the shop on this go-round. It was in the shop 15 days previously for a burned out amplifier. Out of my two month's of ownership, I've had the car about a month, and none-of it trouble-free.
I hope the dealer has provided a loaner.
 
owns 2020 Alfa Romeo Giulia Ti Sport AWD
#32 ·
In respond to all of you with the transmission problem is to call directly to Alfa Romeo "Customer Assistance Center" and open a case, they in term will schedule a visit to your dealer and have the problem addressed, it wasn't till I did this that the right upgrades and reprogram was done to the ECM and everything else need upgrade or repair properly.
 
#35 ·
The solution would need to be on a case-by-case basis. It's hard to imagine everybody having the exact same problem/solution. Similar symptoms, possibly different problem. If enough cars do have the same problem/solution, then a TSB (Technical Service Bulletin) or possibly a recall will be issued.

It's believable that it's only a software issue. My 4C had an ongoing tranny issue for quite some time. It finally failed while an AR rep was driving it. LMAO They had a software patch installed three days later and I haven't a problem since. Of course that's a different animal, same parents though. Yes, I had to call FCA many times to keep them motivated. They are trying, it just doesn't seem so most of the time. We want to be able to drive our cars now, and AR doesn't seem to understand this. "What's the rush"?
 
#36 ·
My QV is the first car that I have ever owned that does not have a manual transmission. I have driven it for about 30 days now, and unfortunately I just don't like the automatic. For general city driving I have to use the paddle shifters to keep the rpm's North of 2000 rpm because the automatic always wants to settle in at about 1800 rpm where it sounds like the motor is lugging down. And it does this even on the dynamic mode.

If they would offer it with a manual transmission I would probably trade this car for a new one with the MT. But its looking like MT's are becoming extinct, because even the next generation BMW 3 series will no longer off a MT:

http://www.thetruthaboutcars.com/20...utcars.com/2017/03/clutch-performance-even-bmw-eliminating-manual-transmission/
 
#37 ·
AR does have a manual trans for the Giulia. It was even ... presented to the USA EPA for emission review and passed. They dropped it at the last possible moment without a word. Speculation has two possible and probable ideas.

1) The manual trans didn't perform well.
2) In crash tests, the clutch pedal crushed in cutting off the driver's foot (crash test dummy).

Not sure which I like the least. I like my feet where they are, attached to my legs. And I certainly don't want a manual transmission that is hard to shift.
 
#39 ·
I also have never owner a car with an automatic except for my pickup.

I absolutely love the automatic on my Q, its the best of all worlds. I'd be hard pressed to even consider the manual knowing how fast this car is. It also gives the car a Jekyl and Hyde personality. Show off to your mistress or carry your granny, its got you covered.

But hey, everyone is different and I just happen to have a few other cars with manual transmissions if I get the itch.
 
#41 ·
My wife's Mercedes E-350 w/ 7spd has the same issue - but in spades. I drive her car like I drive all cars - push it to see how it handles. She has the "sport package" but here is what happens. A windy road to get to town. Every kid of curve imaginable. The worst for her car (and my Giulia) - brake hard for a tight curve, sail thru the curve, meanwhile the car upshifts a gear or two in the curve, exit the curve and accelerate. At this point the transmission doesn't know whether to **** or go blind. Very different than a stick where you are at the right RPM leaving the curve.


I have not owned a lot of cars with automatics - but the Giulia is incredible. I'll try the road in manual mode to see how that feels.
 
#42 ·
With or without the paddle option, the Giulia has a manual shift mode. I've been able to test drive four different Giulias now. In the manual mode, they will not shift until you tell them to shift.

I do agree fully with most of the talk. I learned to drive when I was ten or so, in a stick, four-on-the-floor. I was shifting for my father long before this. I'm almost sixty now and it's all second nature to me. I just drive and don't care what type of traffic I'm in.

My 4C has paddle shifters along with two friction clutches. My first paddle shifter. I took to to it like a duck takes to water. F1 racing technology that finally made it to the masses. She just shifts so nicely. The car would be all wrong with a stick in it somewhere.

Driving the Giulia with paddles is similar to driving my 4C with paddles. Ok, ok. The two cars are worlds apart. I'm talking about the paddle action and the shifting feel. The Giulia is a car my wife can drive in auto mode and I can drive in manual mode. Not that we need this type of car that does it all. My point being that the Giulia is an excellent car the family can use as their only car. Enough performance to satisfy him, a well mannered sedan to satisfy her.