Assuming this is an automatic transmission this could be a sign that the transmission is failing, or may just be a sign that the Transmission Fluid is low.
Check your transmission fluid & top it off if need be. While youre at it, have a sniff, if it smells burnt at all you better start looking for another car.
However, if you drive the car very carefully, avoiding jackrabbit starts and hard accelerations, you may be able to get another year or two out of it.
Also, when it does finally shift the speed is anywhere between 35-45
Probable failed front clutch seal in the transmission. It will require an overhaul.
No.
when the transmission is not shifting or changing out on a 1.8 jetta
synchros are pooched
A car with an automatic transmission shifts itself from 1st to 2nd to 3rd when you accelerate. You don't need to shift it...that's why they call it automatic.
Heat shield on your exhaust system?
I hade the same trouble with a 99 JGC with the 4.0 engine. I found it to be a solonoid inside the trans that kept it from shifting.
Not exactly what you were looking for, but my 95 towncar trans went out about 2 years ago...trouble with shifting to 2nd, would rev high in 1st then go straight to 3rd. I had it completely rebuilt and upgraded to using a more reliable sprag gear for 2nd...to the tune of just under $2000. The trans was then better than new, with improved shifting and more power/acceleration.
My 95 Corolla also has trouble shifting into third gear when the weather is cold. It may take 2-3 minutes on the highway before it finally shifts into third gear. It has 125k miles on it but has been occurring at least for the last 5k miles.
Tires/wheels out of balance? may be while tranny is shifting between 3rd and 4th gear change your fluids , u said between 38 and 42 then goes not shaking good luck.
torque converter clutch probably like mine