Car Jerking When Put in Drive: Causes and Solutions

If your car is jerking when you put it in drive, it can be a frustrating and potentially dangerous problem. There are a number of potential causes for this issue, and it’s important to diagnose the problem correctly in order to find the best solution.

Causes of Car Jerking When Put in Drive

There are a number of potential causes for car jerking when put in drive, including:

• Transmission problems: This is the most common cause of car jerking when put in drive. Transmission problems can be caused by a number of factors, including worn or damaged gears, low transmission fluid, or a faulty torque converter.
• Engine problems: Engine problems can also cause car jerking when put in drive. These problems can include a misfiring spark plug, a clogged fuel injector, or a faulty ignition coil.
• Driveline problems: Driveline problems can also cause car jerking when put in drive. These problems can include a worn or damaged driveshaft, a faulty universal joint, or a loose axle.
• Suspension problems: Suspension problems can also cause car jerking when put in drive. These problems can include worn or damaged shocks or struts, or a loose suspension component.

Solutions for Car Jerking When Put in Drive

The solution for car jerking when put in drive will depend on the underlying cause of the problem. Some common solutions include:

• Transmission repair: If the transmission is the cause of the problem, it may need to be repaired or replaced. This can be a complex and expensive repair, but it is necessary to restore the transmission to proper working order.
• Engine repair: If the engine is the cause of the problem, it may need to be repaired or replaced. This can also be a complex and expensive repair, but it is necessary to restore the engine to proper working order.
• Driveline repair: If the driveline is the cause of the problem, it may need to be repaired or replaced. This can be a less expensive repair than transmission or engine repair, but it is still important to have the problem fixed to prevent further damage.
• Suspension repair: If the suspension is the cause of the problem, it may need to be repaired or replaced. This can be a relatively inexpensive repair, and it can help to improve the ride quality of your car as well.

Preventing Car Jerking When Put in Drive

There are a few things you can do to help prevent car jerking when put in drive, including:

• Regular maintenance: Regular maintenance can help to keep your car in good condition and prevent problems from developing. This includes changing the oil and filter regularly, inspecting the transmission fluid and filter, and checking the suspension components for wear and damage.
• Gentle driving: Avoid aggressive driving habits, such as hard acceleration and braking. This can put stress on the transmission and other components, and it can lead to problems over time.
• Use the correct gear: When driving in stop-and-go traffic, use the correct gear for the speed you are traveling. This will help to reduce stress on the transmission and prevent jerking.

Conclusion

Car jerking when put in drive can be a frustrating and potentially dangerous problem. However, by understanding the potential causes and solutions, you can diagnose the problem and find the best way to fix it. By following the tips in this article, you can help to prevent this problem from happening in the future.