Why does my '99 Toyota 4-Runner shift into 3rd gear at 40 mph, when it should at 32 mph?

Answer 1

I assume this has an automatic transmission. Why do you think it should shift at 32? Did it do that before, and then change it's behavior? Or does it say this in the manual? If it's in the manual, then I'd consider that just a general guideline. Local conditions will cause that to vary, like if you are towing a trailer, carrying a heavy load, running the AC, going up a hill, etc.

Also - does the vehicle have a switch near the shifter that says "Power/economy", or something like that? If so, set it to economy. Some cars have these, and it tells the computer to alter the shift points to get more of one feature than the other.

It might be because your right foot is too heavy.

Answer 2

Because it has adaptive shift control. Which means it adapts to the driving habits of the main driver. You are evidently an aggressive driver. If you start out accelerating fast then the transmission will consider you an aggressive driver, needing the extra torque to accelerate faster. To get the extra torque it holds the lower gear longer so you accelerate faster. If you are more of a conservative driver, then it will shift sooner allowing you to conserve gas and accelerate slower. You'll need 7 starts and stops being conservative in order to change your transmissions thought pattern.

Answer 3

An automatic transmission doesn't necessarily always have to shift from one gear to another at a certain speed. It may depend on heavy footed you are when driving.
have you changed your transmission fluid? This my have an impact on sluggish shifting as well.

Answer 4

Are you running over sized tires? Think about it, if your tires are bigger, the transmission does not know that. It thinks to shift by RPM, not speed...

Answer 5

I wouldnt worry about it. As long as the rpm's dont get too high up your car will be fine. It could be the tires as said before.

Answer 6

i like the first answer