I have a 2000 Buick Le Sabre . Occassionally the transmission will shift hard . I've heard of sticky selenoids causing this . Is this an expensive fix ?Can I do it myself ?

Thx ,
Gonzo

you may need to change tranny fluid and filter this usually helps with this problem but there are solenoids on some inside the tranny that only can be accessed with pan off, that would be the time to change it, maybe someone can tell you more on this, tranny shops will charge minimal extra to change solenoid if they are changing fluid. good luck

Consider the following two actions:

#1 replace front transmission mount (fairly easy to do)

#2 install a shift kit and convert to DEXRON VI while performing the shift kit installation.

The above two steps will address 90% of the intermittent hard shift problems on your Le Sabre.

Most likely your pressure control solenoid is going bad. I would check for codes. If it has a P1811 stored it would confirm that it'* bad. It can be replaced in the car but it requires lowering the drivers side frame and removing the transmission side cover.

Thx for all of the replies .

Gun'* , there was a broken motor mount. I replaced it but the hard shifting is still there . I'm geared to change the selenoids now . I wasn't aware of a kit to change to DEXRON VI .

Racer , the video really helped . I realize it'* not a snap procedure now .

Gonzo

Sometime the check balls or solenoid gets gummed up with varnish & dirt from heat build ups etc. Get the transmission scanned for fault codes.
This will help clean things up. Just add a can to the transmission and drive for about 500 miles and see if the harsh shift goes smoother.
https://seafoamsales.com/product/tra...uid-treatment/
I would then switch up to Dexron VI (6) and I also used the transgo spring and spacer shift kit into accumulator body which is easy to install once the pan is dropped.
That solved my P1811 transmission code (long adapt shift problem) without having to remove or change out the solenoid at valve body.
I used 1000 grit Emory cloth in the accumulator bores to clean them up and get em smooth. The instructions that come with the TransGo Kit explains well the procedure.
Here is the photo from my shift kit install. This really firms up the shifts and eliminates the need in most cases to remove & replace the pressure & shift solenoids.
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