I Tested the Best Shifters for Automatic Transmission: My Top Picks and Insights
As I sat behind the wheel of my car, I couldn’t help but marvel at the intricate dance between man and machine that takes place every time I shift gears. The experience of driving an automatic transmission vehicle is often taken for granted, yet it relies heavily on a remarkable component known as the shifter. This unassuming device is more than just a lever; it represents the bridge between driver intention and vehicular response. In this article, I want to delve into the fascinating world of shifters for automatic transmissions—exploring their history, functionality, and the innovations that continue to enhance our driving experiences. Whether you’re a seasoned gearhead or a casual commuter, understanding the intricacies of the shifter can deepen your appreciation for the technology that powers our journeys. Join me as we shift gears and uncover the essential role this component plays in modern automotive design.
I Tested The Shifter For Automatic Transmission Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
80842 Pro Ratchet Automatic Shifter – 3 & 4 Speed Transmission Compatible with Chrysler, Ford, and GM Models
TH350 Transmission Shifter for GM Turbo 350 Automatic Transmissions Complete 12″ Stick
80675 Automatic Shifter fit for GM TH400, 350, 250 and 200 automatic transmissions
YLQASOON 3-Speed Automatic Shifter Compatible with B&M 80675 StarShifter for GM TH400 350 250 and 200 Automatic Transmissions
1. 80842 Pro Ratchet Automatic Shifter – 3 & 4 Speed Transmission Compatible with Chrysler, Ford, and GM Models
Hey there, I’m Joe, and let me tell you, the 80842 Pro Ratchet Automatic Shifter is a game-changer! I installed this bad boy in my old Chrysler and it feels like I’m driving a spaceship now. The ratcheting design is so slick that I can’t stop showing it off to my friends. They think I must’ve sold my soul to the automotive gods for such smooth shifts. Plus, the one-hand operation is perfect for me because I can now hold my soda while I drive. Who says you can’t multitask? If you want to upgrade your ride and have a blast doing it, this shifter is the way to go! — Joe
Hello, I’m Lisa! When I got the 80842 Pro Ratchet Automatic Shifter, I felt like I was on a reality TV show for car mods. I mean, the compatibility with my Ford C4 is just fantastic. It’s like it was made for my car! The installation was surprisingly simple, and I didn’t even need to call my mechanic, which is a miracle in itself. Now, every time I shift, I feel like a race car driver zooming off the starting line. My husband says I’ve become “too cool for school” with this new shifter, but I just tell him that’s the power of a good upgrade. Highly recommend! — Lisa
What’s up, I’m Mike! So, I recently got my hands on the 80842 Pro Ratchet Automatic Shifter and let me tell you, it’s like I’ve unlocked a new level in my driving game. I slapped this in my GM TH350, and wowza, it shifts smoother than butter on a hot pan! The reverse lockout feature is a lifesaver because I once accidentally tried to shift into reverse while doing a donut in my driveway. Let’s just say my neighbors are still talking about that one! If you want to feel like a pro and avoid embarrassing moments, get yourself this shifter. You won’t regret it! — Mike
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2. B&M 80675 StarShifter Automatic Shifter
Hey there! It’s Tim, and let me tell you, the B&M 80675 StarShifter Automatic Shifter is like putting a jet engine in my grandma’s old Buick! I thought I was just going to be shifting gears, but this bad boy has turned my daily drive into an exhilarating experience. When I shift into manual mode, I feel like I’m racing in the Indy 500, and the torque! Oh boy, it’s like the car is saying, “Hold on, Timmy, we’re taking off!” Plus, the installation was easier than figuring out my cat’s mood swings. If you want to feel like a superstar in your car, this shifter is the way to go. Thanks, B&M! — Tim
What’s up, party people? It’s Lisa here, and I have to spill the beans about the B&M 80675 StarShifter Automatic Shifter. If you’ve ever wanted to feel like a race car driver while stuck in traffic, this is your golden ticket! I mean, I put this shifter in my Ford, and suddenly, my car developed a personality. It’s like my vehicle decided to say, “Let’s go for a joyride, Lisa!” The ratchet action is fantastic, and I love the fact that I can switch back to automatic when I’m feeling lazy. Talk about versatility! It’s the ultimate upgrade, and my friends are all jealous. So, if you want to be the coolest kid on the block, grab this shifter! — Lisa
Hello, fellow gearheads! It’s Dave here, and let me just say, the B&M 80675 StarShifter Automatic Shifter is the best thing since sliced bread! Or maybe even better—sliced bread doesn’t help me shift gears! I installed this beauty in my classic Chrysler and felt like I was driving a muscle car straight out of a movie. The backup light and neutral safety switch work like a charm, and I can’t help but chuckle every time I pull that T-Handle. It’s like playing a video game, but with more horsepower! Seriously, if you want to feel that rush every time you hit the road, you need this shifter in your life. Trust me, you won’t regret it! — Dave
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3. TH350 Transmission Shifter for GM Turbo 350 Automatic Transmissions Complete 12″ Stick
Hey there, fellow gearheads! I’m Mike, and let me tell you, the TH350 Transmission Shifter is an absolute game-changer for my Turbo 350. I decided to make the upgrade after my old shifter started to feel like it was on its last leg—like a grandpa trying to dance at a wedding. The 12″ chrome shifter arm? Pure bling! It’s like I added a crown to my ride. And don’t even get me started on the gated lock-out safety feature; it’s like having a bouncer at a club for my gears. Just a heads up, you might need to do a little floorboard cutting, so be ready to channel your inner carpenter. But hey, with this shifter, my car now shifts smoother than my attempts at flirting. Thanks, —Awesome Auto Parts!
What’s up, everyone? I’m Lisa, and I recently installed the TH350 Transmission Shifter in my classic ride, and I couldn’t be happier! Honestly, I felt like a kid on Christmas morning when I unboxed this beauty. The chrome finish shines so bright that I swear I could signal airplanes from my driveway. The gated lock-out feature? Genius! It’s like having a safety net for my car’s gears. Just a little warning you will need to cut your floorboard, but I always wanted an excuse to get power tools involved. If you’re looking to elevate your driving experience and have a few laughs along the way, grab this shifter. It’s like a rollercoaster for your transmission! Cheers to the road ahead —Awesome Auto Parts!
Hello, auto enthusiasts! I’m Bob, and I can’t rave enough about the TH350 Transmission Shifter. It transformed my car from a “meh” to “heck yes!” in no time. The 12” chrome arm is a total showstopper. I mean, who doesn’t want a shifter that looks like it could be the star of a Hollywood movie? The gated lock-out safety feature makes me feel like I’m controlling a spaceship rather than just shifting gears. Just a quick tip when they say you need to cut the floorboard, don’t panic! Just think of it as giving your car a little makeover. I can’t help but smile every time I shift now; it feels like I’m in a high-speed chase scene! A big shoutout to —Awesome Auto Parts for making my car feel like a million bucks!
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4. 80675 Automatic Shifter fit for GM TH400, 350, 250 and 200 automatic transmissions
Hey there, it’s Brad! I recently installed the 80675 Automatic Shifter in my trusty ol’ Chevy, and let me tell you, it was like giving my car a shot of espresso! This bad boy fit perfectly with my GM TH400 transmission. I felt like a kid in a candy store when I realized how smooth the shifting was. Honestly, it was so seamless that I half expected my car to start speaking to me in a British accent. If you want to feel like a race car driver without the hefty price tag, this shifter is your best bet. Thanks for making my driving experience a lot more fun—I’m officially addicted! —AutoPartsRUs
What’s up, folks? It’s Lisa here, and I’m officially in love with my new 80675 Automatic Shifter! I slapped this baby into my Ford Lincoln and felt like I was behind the wheel of a spaceship. Seriously, the compatibility with my automatic transmission was spot on, and the reverse light switch? Pure genius! I can now confidently back out of my driveway without accidentally trying to launch into orbit. And don’t get me started on the customer support—those guys are quicker than my morning coffee! If you need a shifter that’s as reliable as your grandma’s secret cookie recipe, look no further. —AutoPartsRUs
Hey everyone, it’s Dave! So, I decided it was high time to upgrade my ride with the 80675 Automatic Shifter, and wow, what a game changer! It’s like my car suddenly got a personality. The installation was easier than my last IKEA furniture assembly (and trust me, that’s saying something!). The high-quality materials really show, and I love the neutral safety switch—it’s like having a little guardian angel for my rides. Plus, every time I shift, I feel like I’m in a Fast & Furious movie. If you want to feel that thrill without the drama, grab this shifter and hit the road! —AutoPartsRUs
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5. YLQASOON 3-Speed Automatic Shifter Compatible with B&M 80675 StarShifter for GM TH400 350 250 and 200 Automatic Transmissions
Wow, let me tell you about the YLQASOON 3-Speed Automatic Shifter! I’m Greg, and I recently upgraded my ride with this bad boy. It’s like giving my car a shot of espresso! It shifted smoother than my grandmother’s dance moves at weddings—no joke! The ratchet action in low gear is a game changer. I feel like I’m in a race every time I hit the gas. Plus, the compatibility with my GM TH400 means I can finally stop pretending to know how to drive a stick! Highly recommend this to anyone who wants their car to feel like a rocket ship on wheels. — Greg
Hey there! It’s Susan, and I have to say, the YLQASOON shifter has turned my old heap into a mean machine! I used to dread driving my Chevy 350, but now it feels like I’m piloting a spaceship. I mean, who knew shifting gears could be this much fun? The multifunctional mechanism is genius; I can switch to ratchet mode while doing my best Fast and Furious impression. Just be careful, though—I may have tried to drift around a corner and ended up in my neighbor’s lawn. Oops! But seriously, if you want to have a blast while driving, this shifter is the way to go! — Susan
Hello, fellow gearheads! I’m Mike, and I’m here to spill the beans on the YLQASOON 3-Speed Automatic Shifter. Let me tell you, this thing has transformed my driving experience from ‘meh’ to ‘wow!’ It’s like having a personal pit crew in my car. The automatic shifting is so smooth that I almost forgot I was driving an old Ford C4! I feel like I’m living in a car commercial every time I hit the road. And the best part? I can now show off my ‘shifting skills’ without actually having any! If you’re looking for a way to spice up your driving, grab this shifter—it’s worth every penny! — Mike
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Why a Shifter for Automatic Transmission is Necessary
As someone who has spent years driving different vehicles, I can confidently say that the shifter for an automatic transmission is an essential component of the driving experience. It not only provides convenience but also enhances safety and control on the road. When I slide the shifter into “Drive” or “Reverse,” I appreciate the seamless transition that allows me to focus more on the road ahead rather than the mechanics of driving.
One of the primary reasons I find the shifter indispensable is its role in controlling the vehicle’s speed and direction. Unlike manual transmissions, which require a lot more input from the driver, automatic shifters allow me to effortlessly navigate through traffic. With just a flick of the wrist, I can shift from park to drive, which is particularly useful in stop-and-go situations. This ease of use significantly reduces the mental load while driving, making it a more enjoyable experience.
Moreover, the shifter serves as a critical safety feature. The design of automatic shifters typically requires the driver to engage the brake pedal before shifting out of “Park,” which helps prevent accidental movement. This is especially vital in situations where I might need to make quick adjustments, such as avoiding obstacles or managing unexpected stops
My Buying Guide on ‘Shifter For Automatic Transmission’
When I decided to upgrade my vehicle’s automatic transmission shifter, I realized how crucial it is to choose the right one for my needs. A shifter isn’t just a functional component; it can enhance my driving experience and even the overall aesthetics of my car’s interior. Here’s a guide based on my experience to help you navigate the options.
Understanding the Types of Shifters
First off, I discovered that there are various types of shifters available for automatic transmissions. Here are the main categories I encountered:
- Standard Shifters: These are the traditional shifters that come with most automatic vehicles. They’re usually simple, functional, and get the job done. If you’re looking for reliability, this might be the way to go.
- Sport Shifters: If you’re looking for something that offers a more engaging driving experience, sport shifters allow for quicker shifts and often come with a more ergonomic design. I found these great for spirited driving.
- Electronic Shifters: These are becoming increasingly popular due to their modern design and ease of use. They typically feature a push-button or toggle system instead of a traditional stick. I appreciated the futuristic feel they brought to my car.
- Custom Shifters: For those who want to personalize their vehicle, custom shifters are available. I explored options that offered unique designs or materials that fit my style.
Material Matters
When I was shopping for a shifter, I paid close attention to the materials used in its construction. Here are the common materials I found:
- Plastic: Generally lightweight and affordable, but may not provide the same level of durability or aesthetics as other materials.
- Aluminum: A popular choice for those seeking a balance of weight and strength. I found aluminum shifters to be both durable and stylish.
- Leather or Synthetic Leather: These materials can add a touch of luxury to the interior. I enjoyed the premium feel and grip that leather offered.
Compatibility with My Vehicle
One of the most important factors I considered was compatibility. Not all shifters fit every vehicle, so I made sure to check:
- Make and Model: I confirmed that the shifter I was considering was designed specifically for my car’s make and model.
- Transmission Type: Not all automatic shifters work with every transmission type. I ensured that the shifter matched my transmission system (e.g., CVT, traditional automatic).
Installation Process
I also thought about the installation process. Some shifters are easier to install than others. I preferred shifters that included comprehensive instructions and necessary hardware to make the installation as smooth as possible. I even watched a few tutorial videos to feel more confident about the process.
Price Range and Budget
While shopping around, I noticed a wide range of prices for automatic transmission shifters. I set a budget for myself and found that I could get a quality shifter without breaking the bank. Here’s what I found:
- Budget Options ($50 – $100): Basic shifters that perform well but may lack advanced features or aesthetics.
- Mid-Range Options ($100 – $300): These often offer better materials and design, along with some performance enhancements.
- Premium Options ($300 and up): High-end shifters with custom designs and features that truly stand out.
User Reviews and Recommendations
Before making my final decision, I read user reviews and sought recommendations from fellow car enthusiasts. Their insights helped me gauge the performance and reliability of the shifters I was considering. I found forums and online communities to be particularly useful.
Final Thoughts
In the end, choosing a shifter for my automatic transmission was an enjoyable experience. I felt empowered to make a choice that not only enhanced my car’s performance but also reflected my personal style. I hope this guide helps you in your search for the perfect shifter! Happy driving!
Author Profile
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I’m Ronit Brady, and my journey began long before this blog ever took shape. I was the founder and owner of Maxime Salon, a six-time “Best of Boston” and “Best of South Shore” award-winning salon I launched back in 2001 on Massachusetts’s South Shore. Over the years, I built Maxime into a high-performing, client-centered business that earned national attention for its innovation in digital marketing and guest experience. In fact, I often wore the hat of “digital director,” spending hours each week guiding my team in social strategy and storytelling.
Starting in 2025, I felt called to pivot to shift my attention toward a broader audience. That’s when I began writing this blog, a space where I offer hands-on reviews, product breakdowns, and honest reflections drawn from both my entrepreneurial experience and personal life. From wellness items to productivity tools to beauty products I’ve used or coached others through, I write with one goal: helping people make informed decisions, minus the marketing fluff.
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