Automatic Transmission Car Juddering: Causes and Solutions
Juddering, also known as shuddering or vibration, is a common issue that can occur in automatic transmission cars. It can be a frustrating and uncomfortable experience for drivers, and it can also be a sign of underlying problems with the transmission system.
Causes of Automatic Transmission Juddering
There can be a number of different causes of automatic transmission juddering. Some of the most common include:
* Low transmission fluid: The transmission fluid is responsible for lubricating the moving parts of the transmission and providing hydraulic pressure to shift gears. If the fluid level is low, it can cause the transmission to slip, which can lead to juddering.
* Dirty transmission fluid: Over time, the transmission fluid can become dirty and contaminated with metal shavings and other debris. This can cause the fluid to lose its lubricating properties and can lead to juddering.
* Worn or damaged transmission components: The transmission is a complex system with many different components, including gears, clutches, and bands. If any of these components are worn or damaged, it can cause the transmission to judder.
* Electrical problems: Electrical problems, such as a faulty sensor or solenoid, can also cause the transmission to judder.
Symptoms of Automatic Transmission Juddering
The symptoms of automatic transmission juddering can vary depending on the cause of the problem. Some of the most common symptoms include:
* Vibration or shuddering when shifting gears: This is the most common symptom of automatic transmission juddering. It can occur when the car is shifting from park to drive, from drive to reverse, or when shifting between gears while driving.
* Slipping gears: The transmission may slip gears, which can cause the car to lose power or accelerate erratically.
* Leaking transmission fluid: If the transmission is leaking fluid, it can cause the fluid level to drop and lead to juddering.
* Check engine light: The check engine light may come on if the transmission is experiencing a problem.
How to Fix Automatic Transmission Juddering
The best way to fix automatic transmission juddering is to have the problem diagnosed and repaired by a qualified mechanic. The mechanic will be able to determine the cause of the problem and recommend the best course of action.
Some of the common repairs for automatic transmission juddering include:
* Changing the transmission fluid: If the transmission fluid is low or dirty, changing it can often solve the problem.
* Flushing the transmission: A transmission flush can remove contaminants from the system and help to restore the fluid’s lubricating properties.
* Replacing worn or damaged transmission components: If any of the transmission components are worn or damaged, they will need to be replaced.
* Repairing electrical problems: If the transmission is experiencing electrical problems, the mechanic will need to repair or replace the faulty components.
Preventing Automatic Transmission Juddering
There are a few things you can do to help prevent automatic transmission juddering:
* Keep the transmission fluid at the proper level: Check the transmission fluid level regularly and add fluid as needed.
* Change the transmission fluid according to the manufacturer’s recommendations: The transmission fluid should be changed every 30,000 to 60,000 miles.
* Avoid hard shifts: When shifting gears, avoid making hard shifts that can put stress on the transmission.
* Get regular transmission inspections: A qualified mechanic can inspect the transmission and identify any potential problems before they become serious.
Conclusion
Automatic transmission juddering can be a frustrating and uncomfortable problem, but it can often be fixed with a simple repair. If you are experiencing juddering in your automatic transmission car, it is important to have the problem diagnosed and repaired by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible.
