The OP isn't saying the fluid is dark, but that the reservoir is actually black plastic, not the transluscent white. I've not seen a black one, but perhaps that was a running change - mine is a very early '14 with a white reservoir, and all my friends with C7s have the automatics. Not much to compare it to!
As for your actual shifting problem, it's possible the shifter needs realignment for better engage/disengage characteristics. Your dealer should be able to help there. When you check the fluid, check the color as well. If very dark (think coffee or tea) it should be replaced. Good fluid will be very nearly clear with just a hint of caramel color (think ginger ale). Again, the dealer can fix this. Yes, you should really be downshifting, as the upper gears aren't designed for very low speeds. As Fleet mentioned, the syncros can be a bit fussy. In most situations, I press the clutch in just before complete stop, and shift out of gear. Once stopped, I'll either keep it in neutral and watch for the cross light to go yellow, and slip into 1st just before I get green, or just keep the clutch pressed and immediately go into 1st while stopped at shorter intervals, such as stop signs, behind school buses, etc. I think Fleet is overall right, as on rare occassions I have to double clutch to get into first. My '14 Z51 M7 has 73xxx miles, and no major tranny issues.
As for your actual shifting problem, it's possible the shifter needs realignment for better engage/disengage characteristics. Your dealer should be able to help there. When you check the fluid, check the color as well. If very dark (think coffee or tea) it should be replaced. Good fluid will be very nearly clear with just a hint of caramel color (think ginger ale). Again, the dealer can fix this. Yes, you should really be downshifting, as the upper gears aren't designed for very low speeds. As Fleet mentioned, the syncros can be a bit fussy. In most situations, I press the clutch in just before complete stop, and shift out of gear. Once stopped, I'll either keep it in neutral and watch for the cross light to go yellow, and slip into 1st just before I get green, or just keep the clutch pressed and immediately go into 1st while stopped at shorter intervals, such as stop signs, behind school buses, etc. I think Fleet is overall right, as on rare occassions I have to double clutch to get into first. My '14 Z51 M7 has 73xxx miles, and no major tranny issues.
