2012 Skyactiv Auto HB - Clunks the 2nd to first shift

[Ionya]

Anybody else notice this. When stopping and then rolling forward there is a noticeable clunk when it shifts into first. Seems to only happen when cold.

Just curious if it is just my car or everyone with an 6 spd auto skyactiv. Is this because it has a torque converter vs. other dual clutches not having one?

 

[Woochifer]

I only notice abruptness from 1st to 2nd during slower accelerations, and yes when the car is cold. My understanding of how the Skyactiv AT works is that the torque converter locks up ~90% of the time and operates primarily at speeds under 5 MPH. That torque converter lock up happens around the same time as the upshifts to 2nd gear. Otherwise, the Skyactiv AT might very well be the most responsive and connected feeling ATs I've ever driven, especially in the manual mode. Dual clutch transmissions also shift very quickly with great responsiveness and connection. Their weakness is at low speeds (I've only driven the Focus, whose dual clutch transmission has not reviewed very well), where they can get clunky. The dual clutch Focus felt awkward in stop and go traffic.

 

[Ionya]

I had a 06 VW GTI /w DSG. But that didn't have a torque converter. I never noticed it doing that.

I agree the trans feels great especially in manual. Very responsive. I think the car shifts well on its own as well.

 

[Canadian-ES-GT]

I have heard this in a review, forget which one. Although, I also heard that Mazda has either already come out with a fix (software re-flash of some sort) or they will be coming out with fix. I would go to the dealer and explain your problem. I'm sure you're not the only one with this glitch.

 

[nutmeg]

I rented an alfa giulietta that did this as well... I think a lot of dual clutches do this.

It was not clunky feeling but you could definitely hear it downshifting when almost stopped.

 

[Canadian-ES-GT]

the Mazda 3 AT isn't a dual clutch though, its a regular automatic that uses a manual-type of clutch and locks up the gears ~80% of the time

 

[Ionya]

I think this has gone away with some break in time. I am coming up on 3000 miles and don't notice this any longer

 

[hotcracker69]

this is a old post... but to help when people are searching,


There is a TSB from Mazda to address the issue