I occasionally get a hesitation between first and second gear. Is this possibly a software fix or a early sign of timing chain problem, ( Just under 130000 miles)

 

Ummm, you have us all at a loss; unless we know the make, model, model year, engine, and transmission of your car then there's no way anybody will be able to offer you any help.

 

My car is a 2008 Mazda 3s. Has a 2.3 liter engine. This is for the hesitation between first and second on occasion. Can be cold or hot, doesn't matter. Not happening on a regular basis right now. Software issue or possible timing chain issue coming soon.

 

My 2009 Mazda3 i 5-Speed has a similar hesitation under certain cirsumstances, more often when the engine is cold. As I've experienced a similar hesitation (or worse) in other cars with electronic throttles, I put up with it.

FWIW, I find that if I delay shifting into second until the rpms are beyond 3,000 (especially when the engine is cold) the problem is almost completely eliminated.