Focus 2003 auto - harsh kick down applying power

[Frantic]

I'm in Australia but the Focus is the same as delivered in Europe. The US model is different.

The problem is the auto really jerks the car, usually after slowing down then re-applying the power. I can drive around the problem to some extent (slowly apply power) but it catches me every now then. My wife hates it btw.
The car is a 2L 2003 CL Zetec, with only about 90,000km (55,000ml). Otherwise in good condition.

The kick down is of course all inside the auto. That is, there is no vacuum or cable control.

Fluid level and colour are good. I can't recall ever changing the tranny fluid. But people I have spoken to doubt that is the problem.

In fact I have two of these, both 2003 models and both show the same jerkiness, although one is a lot worse than the other.

Have asked around transmission repair shops here and so far no one has said they know what the problem is.

i reckon in the UK, with many more of these around, someone must have experienced it.

i am pretty sure the auto is 4 speed and it occurs between 2nd and 3rd.

The auto has an overdrive button on the shift, but have not tried it without the overdrive on.

Normally we leave the button in, out it becomes a 3 speed, for caravans, towing, hills, etc.
Anyone know the cause of this? Or maybe give me some way of checking it out further.

(I don't think it causes an ECU error, as that raises a light on the dash. I've got a reader, and have used it for other stuff.)