Automatic Transmission Car Jerks When Shifting

Causes of Jerking When Shifting

There are a number of potential causes of an automatic transmission car jerking when shifting. These include:

• Low transmission fluid: If the transmission fluid level is low, the transmission may not be able to shift smoothly, causing it to jerk.
• Dirty transmission fluid: Dirty transmission fluid can clog the transmission’s filters and valves, causing it to shift erratically.
• Worn transmission parts: As an automatic transmission ages, its parts can wear out, leading to jerking when shifting.
• Loose transmission mounts: If the transmission mounts are loose, the transmission may move around when shifting, causing the car to jerk.
• Torque converter issues: The torque converter is responsible for transmitting power from the engine to the transmission. If the torque converter is damaged or malfunctioning, it can cause the car to jerk when shifting.

Diagnosis and Repair

If you are experiencing jerking when shifting, it is important to have your car diagnosed by a qualified mechanic. The mechanic will be able to determine the cause of the problem and recommend the appropriate repairs.

In some cases, the problem may be as simple as adding transmission fluid or replacing a filter. However, in other cases, the repair may be more involved, such as replacing a worn transmission part or rebuilding the transmission.

Tips for Preventing Jerking When Shifting

There are a few things you can do to help prevent jerking when shifting your automatic transmission:

• Check your transmission fluid level regularly. The transmission fluid level should be checked every 30,000 miles or so, or more often if you tow heavy loads or drive in stop-and-go traffic.
• Change your transmission fluid and filter every 30,000 miles. This will help to keep the transmission clean and free of debris.
• Avoid sudden acceleration and braking. When you accelerate or brake suddenly, you put extra stress on the transmission, which can lead to jerking.
• Have your transmission serviced by a qualified mechanic regularly. A qualified mechanic can inspect your transmission for wear and tear and make any necessary repairs.

Conclusion

Jerking when shifting is a common problem with automatic transmission cars. However, it is important to have the problem diagnosed and repaired by a qualified mechanic to prevent further damage to the transmission.