The operating characteristics of the check valve in the clutch piston of an automatic transmission have a great effect on the shifting performance. This paper addresses the modeling, dynamic analysis, and optimization of the check valve. It was found that the vortex causes a pressure drop, which is related to the rotating speed of the clutch piston, oil volume discharged from the check valve, and valve geometry. Maximizing the oil volume discharged, geometry of the check valve is optimized. The results can be used to design an improved check valve which provides a suitable oil pressure curves for achieving smoother shifting.