2020 UAZ HUNTER

Typical onset: 30,000-70,000 mi

Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifts, especially 2nd to 3rd gear, Check engine light with P0750, P0755, P0760 codes (shift solenoid circuit), Transmission stuck in limp mode (3rd gear only), Intermittent no-start due to faulty range sensor communication

Fix: Usually starts with individual shift solenoids ($150-250 each, 2-3 hours labor to drop pan and replace), but TCM failures are common due to poor sealing and moisture intrusion. Full TCM replacement requires 4-5 hours for removal, programming, and relearning. Often find corroded connectors inside transmission requiring harness repair. Replace transmission range sensor at same time as preventive measure.

Estimated cost: $800-2,800

Typical onset: 50,000-90,000 mi

Symptoms: Shudder or vibration at 35-45 mph during light acceleration, Transmission overheating (fluid temps above 220°F), Metallic debris in transmission pan during fluid service, Loss of lockup function with P0741 code

Fix: Torque converter clutch material delaminates early, especially if fluid service intervals exceed 30,000 miles. Requires full transmission removal (8-10 hours labor). Always replace transmission oil cooler and flush lines when doing converter—cooler failures contribute to repeat torque converter death. Budget 10-12 shop hours total.

Estimated cost: $2,200-3,800

Typical onset: 40,000-80,000 mi

Symptoms: Squealing or grinding noise when clutch pedal is depressed, Clutch pedal stays on floor or has spongy feel, Difficulty shifting into gear when engine running, Visible clutch fluid leak at master or slave cylinder

Fix: Factory throw-out bearing is marginal quality and fails early. Since transmission is out (5-6 hours labor), always replace clutch disc, pressure plate, pilot bearing, and both master and slave cylinders as a kit. Bleeding the hydraulic system on these is frustrating—expect 1 hour just for that. Common to find clutch fork pivot ball worn as well.

Estimated cost: $1,400-2,200

Typical onset: 25,000-60,000 mi

Symptoms: Excessive vibration in cabin at idle, especially in gear, Clunking when shifting from park to drive or reverse, Visible separation or tearing of rubber isolator, Driveline angle changes causing u-joint vibration

Fix: Factory transmission mount uses soft rubber that deteriorates quickly, especially in hot climates. Replacement is straightforward (1.5-2 hours with proper transmission jack support) but requires lifting transmission slightly. Inspect transfer case mount at same time—often fails simultaneously. Aftermarket heavy-duty mounts last 3x longer.

Estimated cost: $250-450

Symptoms: Hard starting after sitting overnight, Loss of power under load or uphill, Rough idle and hesitation during acceleration, Check engine light with lean codes (P0171/P0174)

Fix: The 2.7L I4 is sensitive to fuel quality—common in markets where UAZ is sold. Fuel filter clogs prematurely (should be serviced every 15,000 miles, not 30,000). Filter replacement is 1 hour labor but often find rust contamination in tank requiring drop and cleaning (add 4-5 hours). Check fuel pump pressure (should be 55-62 psi)—pump sock clogs easily. Replace filter and inspect tank before chasing injector issues.

Estimated cost: $180-1,200

Typical onset: 35,000-80,000 mi

Symptoms: Engine won't crank in park, works in neutral (or vice versa), Backup lights don't illuminate in reverse, Intermittent no-start that clears after cycling shifter, Cruise control won't engage

Fix: Switch mounted on side of transmission gets contaminated with road grime and fluid seepage. Adjustment procedure is finicky—requires precise alignment with detent plate. Replacement takes 1.5-2 hours including proper adjustment and testing in all gear positions. Often misdiagnosed as TCM issue. Clean connector terminals with electronics cleaner first—30% success rate avoiding replacement.

Estimated cost: $220-420