Transmission harsh engagement (1997 Ford Taurus GL)?

When I shift from park to reverse or drive and even when i put it in park it engages very harshly. What could be the problem? Please recommend a fix.

1st thing to look at is the level of the transmission fluid - have you checked that? If the level is OK and w/o a burned smell to the fluid, then the next step is to take the vehicle to several transmission shops for their estimate and cost… It may be that bands inside need adjustment, or? No way to know w/o looking at the inside of the trans

Didn't like the previous answers? The other thing to check are engine /transmission mounts. With e/brake on and left foot on the brake and hood open put the car in drive step on the gas if engine has a severe jump the mounts are no good. Also do it in reverse. If mounts check out O.K then internal transmission problem

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