Can a Bad Transmission Cause a Car to Jerk?

A bad transmission can definitely cause a car to jerk. Jerking is often a sign that the transmission is slipping, which means that it’s not able to engage the gears properly. This can be caused by a number of problems, including:

Low transmission fluid
Dirty transmission fluid
Worn transmission gears
Damaged transmission solenoids
Faulty torque converter

If you’re experiencing jerking in your car, it’s important to have it checked out by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible. Ignoring the problem can lead to further damage to the transmission, which could be expensive to repair.

Symptoms of a Bad Transmission

In addition to jerking, there are other symptoms that can indicate a bad transmission, including:

Slipping gears
Difficulty shifting gears
Noisy transmission
Leaking transmission fluid
Burning smell

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to have your car checked out by a qualified mechanic.

Causes of a Bad Transmission

There are a number of factors that can contribute to a bad transmission, including:

Lack of maintenance
Towing heavy loads
Aggressive driving
Manufacturing defects

By following the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule, you can help to prevent transmission problems.

Diagnosis of a Bad Transmission

To diagnose a bad transmission, a mechanic will typically perform the following steps:

Inspect the transmission fluid
Check the transmission for leaks
Test the transmission solenoids
Road test the vehicle

Once the mechanic has diagnosed the problem, they will recommend the best course of action.

Treatment of a Bad Transmission

The treatment for a bad transmission will depend on the severity of the problem. In some cases, the transmission may be able to be repaired. However, in other cases, it may need to be replaced.

If your transmission needs to be replaced, the cost will vary depending on the type of car you have and the labor costs in your area. However, you can expect to pay anywhere from $2,000 to $5,000 for a new transmission.