I have a 2004 Volvo S80 (2.5L Turbo). When I start the car and pass from 1st to 2nd gear, the initial shift is hard (there’s a “thud” noise and vibration). The transmission immediately goes into limp mode which causes poor acceleration. The car is able to shift through the higher gears and drives reasonably well. As I drive, even when I stop and go, the shifting is fine (no thud as I re-accelerate). However, if I turn the engine off and then re-start, I get the thud again. This started out as very intermittant and now happens every time I start the car and accelerate out of 1st gear. I think the issue may be a dirty 1/2 shift solenoid. If the solenoid has failed, wouldn’t I have the hard shift everytime I re-accelerate or does limp mode cause that phenomenon? Also, does anyone have a good estimate as to the cost to replace a shift solenoid for this make/model vehicle?

 

Google "Volvo slam shift" and be amazed - (the solenoids used in your trans have all sorts of common problems in all the brands of cars that use that Trans)

You might be in for a valve body replacement - to possibly solve your shifting problem.

 

Thanks, Hoonk. I'll check it out.