What are the reasons for severe shaking and jerking when starting in first gear?
2 Answers
The main reason is excessive wear of the clutch pressure plate. Relevant information about the clutch is as follows: 1. Clutch composition: The clutch consists of a driven disc assembly, clutch pressure plate and cover assembly, release bearing, and flywheel, mainly made of high-strength steel, aluminum alloy, and ductile iron. 2. Clutch lifespan: The normal service life of the clutch plate is similar to that of brake pads, depending largely on driving habits, road conditions, and load. In other words, faster wear leads to a shorter lifespan, while slower wear extends it. 3. Operating tips: Avoid resting your foot on the clutch pedal while driving, and master the engagement point when starting. Do not use a low gear at high speeds.
I've been driving for years, and first-gear starting shudders are mostly due to clutch issues. Worn clutch plates or incomplete engagement can cause severe shaking, as if the engine output is unstable. I've encountered this situation before—the car would jerk at idle, and it turned out to be aging spark plugs causing insufficient power. Check if the clutch pedal height is appropriate; too high makes engagement difficult, while too low accelerates wear. Using low-quality oil or clogged fuel lines can also worsen the shaking. I recommend timely repairs—don’t wait until unstable starts lead to accidents. Regular maintenance of the clutch and engine system is crucial, and cleaning spark plugs more often can improve smoothness. Check fluid levels yourself to ensure proper operation. Safe driving relies on details—don’t underestimate daily maintenance.