Is It Normal to Feel a Jerk When Shifting from N to D in an Automatic Car?
1 Answers
It is mostly normal to experience a jerk or jolt when shifting from D to N or N to D in an automatic transmission car. If the car is new, it is unlikely to be a fault. In D gear, the engine disconnects from the transmission. AT/CVT transmissions, which use a torque converter structure (a soft connection), tend to have slightly less noticeable jerks, while DCT/AMT transmissions, which use a clutch for rigid connection and disengagement, may exhibit more pronounced jerks. Below are some related explanations: 1. Rear-wheel-drive cars: The jolt can be more noticeable when shifting to neutral, and you might observe the rear of the vehicle slightly sinking. This occurs because, after shifting from drive to neutral, the transmission's driveshaft and differential undergo a process similar to releasing tension. The sudden interruption of power and the gap between separating gears can cause this sinking sensation. 2. Reason: Automatic transmissions are designed to make driving more convenient, but the principle of power transmission is essentially the same as in manual transmissions. Whenever the engine's power needs to be transmitted through the gearbox to the wheels, there will be opposing forces at play, resulting in sounds or certain jerking sensations.
