I have an 01 automatic and don't feel any ruff downshift into first before coming to a stop. About your reprogramming; that's done by the dealer on very early 01's. Anything built after about 8-00 doesn't need the dealer reprogram. What you can do is take the negative or positive battery cable off for a few minutes then re-attach it and go for a drive. it may stumble a bit at first while the computer re-learns the setting and of course you'll lose your pre-set radio stations. Once the car smooths out, drive normally with a little spiritied driving also. The computer will learn the proper settings and pick up new settings for any aftermarket mods you've added.
