1st to 2nd on mine is a bit 'hesitant' i get a bit of a clunk, if you have no history, i'd really recomend you change the ATX fluid now.. you have a few choices depending on how handy you are with cars.. (i'm NOT at all) option one is to drain the ATX and clean or replace the filter, but this will not remove ALL the ATX fluid, but should help, it does include fun things like removing cross members!!! other option is the two bucket method, that is supposed to work, but i'm not sure if anyone ever managed it, the previous owner of mine said he did it ever 3k?? check out :
http://homepage.ntlworld.com/dorothy.bradbury/probemx/
all the info there.. also thing about an aftermarket cooler and filter..
you DON'T NEED them.. but if you want to kane it a lot then it best to keep them cool... depends how you drive...
i don't drive like a nutter any more so I find its fine..
i do use L and S (my hold button has been removed) to give me more control.... but I believe its best not to use hold too much... according to the manual its for snow n stuff.. if you want I can scan the relevant pages re the ATX..
enjoy the auto for what it is... if you sitting in traffic / lights for a while pop it into N... but for most of the time keep her in D and just cruze... the joy of pressing the 'go' pedal...and blating it ... then maybe a round about.. so brake..then..... 'go' pedal again.. its soo sweet... all that clutch and changing gears is too much like hard work
Mine does slip a bit.. but @ 135k miles... I not expecting perfection.. kickdown on mine is not the same as what others have described, but I've adapted my driving accordingly.. and to be honest all it means is I take less risks, use less gas.. and get a smoother drive...
re the rear brakes .. seems like you've got the normal issue.. go a search theres some info here on how to free 'em up... which should last you. tip is NOT to use the hand brake (eh Stu!) otherwise they stick on... there is someone with a spare set for sale that I was going to buy, but its sounds like you need them more than me.. PM Stuzzer (cos I can't remeber who it was) and he'll put you in touch..
Lastly.. get your self to a meet.. no need to say exact location, but are you SE? NE?? etc??
at last.. another auto ... we're a rare breed