Is Low-Speed Jerking Normal for Dual-Clutch Transmissions?

[VonMakayla]

Low-speed jerking in dual-clutch transmissions indicates an abnormality in the vehicle, primarily due to two reasons: 1. Large gear ratio differences in low gears: Those who have driven manual transmissions know that when the engine speed is high, shifting from first to second gear can cause some jerking. This is due to the significant change in gear ratios. For automatic transmissions, the presence of a torque converter helps buffer the shift, resulting in relatively less noticeable jerking. However, dual-clutch transmissions lack a torque converter and can only mitigate this jerking by prolonging the semi-engaged state of the two clutch sets, which may still exhibit some degree of jerking. 2. Mechanical limitations and shift logic of dual-clutch transmissions: Due to their mechanical structure and working principle, dual-clutch transmissions always have two gears engaged simultaneously—one for power output and another prepared for the next shift. While dual-clutch transmissions shift up very quickly, their downshifting speed is comparatively slower.