'05 Mazda 3 2.3L Transmission kick when shifting 1rst to 2nd
 

Mazda3'ers,

Problem: [/B][/B] My '05 Mazda 3 hatchback with and Automatic Trans and 95K miles was "kicking" when it shifted from 1rst to 2nd gear. It seemed like there was a delay in the shift and then it would engage resulting in a kick that is felt. The kick generally happened after the car was sitting for a few hours and especially overnight. It did happen after the tranx was warm but not nearly as much.

Action taken: My local garage recommended rebuilding the transmission (i trust these guys and so do many others. They have consistent great reviews on Yelp) - which i did and also replaced the motor mounts. I got the car back and after a few days noticed the car still produced the "kick" when shifting between 1rst and 2nd. I took it back and they took another look at it and returned it to me. After a day or 2 the kick returned. I did not take it back immediately and after a few months the Transmission began to leak in my garage at which time i did take it back and they replaced the seal and retuned it.

Current situation: This time i got it back and the kick is still there AND the car runs EXTREMELY rough. It is much much louder when in gear. The idle is exceptionally rough. I like the mechanics, but have lost my confidence in their transmission skill competence.

I saw on Youtube that it may be a "valve body"? Anybody have any recommendations or additional information on this?

Thanks!
-JP