I have a2004 xc70 that has the normal hard shifting between 1st and second and third. I've change the oil and it helps for a while is there a more permanent solution besides tran rebuild

 

You could replace the valve body, that MIGHT fix it. Others will claim you can rebuild the solenoids yourself on the valve body, that MIGHT fix it. I trust you used the correct oil, 3309, or volvo, or Toyota type 4 (and others). Just not some generic that claims to be compatible.