Car Jerks When Shifting Gears Automatic Transmission
Causes
There are several potential causes for a car to jerk when shifting gears in an automatic transmission. These include:
- Low transmission fluid: If the transmission fluid is low, it can cause the transmission to slip, which can lead to jerking when shifting gears.
- Dirty transmission fluid: Dirty transmission fluid can also cause the transmission to slip, leading to jerking.
- Faulty transmission solenoid: A faulty transmission solenoid can cause the transmission to shift gears too quickly or too slowly, which can lead to jerking.
- Faulty torque converter: The torque converter is responsible for transferring power from the engine to the transmission. If the torque converter is faulty, it can cause the transmission to jerk when shifting gears.
- Mechanical problems: In some cases, jerking when shifting gears can be caused by mechanical problems, such as a worn clutch or a damaged gear.
Symptoms
In addition to jerking when shifting gears, other symptoms of a problem with an automatic transmission can include:
- Slipping gears: The transmission may slip out of gear when driving, especially when accelerating or decelerating.
- Delayed shifting: The transmission may take a while to shift gears, or it may shift gears at the wrong time.
- Harsh shifting: The transmission may shift gears with a jolt or a bang.
- Leaking transmission fluid: A leak in the transmission can cause the transmission fluid to become low, which can lead to jerking and other problems.
Diagnosis
If you are experiencing jerking when shifting gears in your automatic transmission, it is important to have the problem diagnosed by a qualified mechanic. The mechanic will likely start by checking the transmission fluid level and condition. They may also perform a diagnostic scan to check for any fault codes that could indicate a problem with the transmission.
Treatment
The treatment for jerking when shifting gears in an automatic transmission will depend on the underlying cause of the problem. In some cases, simply changing the transmission fluid and filter can solve the problem. In other cases, more extensive repairs may be necessary, such as replacing a faulty solenoid or torque converter.
Prevention
There are a few things you can do to help prevent jerking when shifting gears in an automatic transmission:
- Regularly check the transmission fluid level and condition: The transmission fluid should be checked every 30,000 to 60,000 miles. If the fluid is low or dirty, it should be changed.
- Avoid harsh driving: Harsh driving, such as accelerating and decelerating quickly, can put stress on the transmission and lead to problems.
- Have the transmission serviced regularly: The transmission should be serviced every 30,000 to 60,000 miles. This service includes changing the transmission fluid and filter, and inspecting the transmission for any problems.
Conclusion
Jerking when shifting gears in an automatic transmission can be a sign of a problem with the transmission. If you are experiencing this problem, it is important to have the problem diagnosed and repaired by a qualified mechanic.
