2003 Passat wagon - weird downshifting

At 1300-1500 rpm, 35-40 mph on a flat road, the transmission barely shifts down, happening every 4-5 seconds, causing the car to lurch a bit. The rpm bumps up about 100 rpm each time.



The dealer has not a clue (no warnings or diagnostics from the car’s computer) and is talking about pulling the transmission.



Any ideas?

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