What causes CVT jerking?
2 Answers
Jerking sensation occurs during automatic gear shifting. In fact, the so-called automatic transmission operates on the same principle as a manual transmission, both involving the conversion between large and small gears. Therefore, the transition process of an automatic transmission between the sun gear and planetary gear ring is similar to manual gear shifting, which inevitably results in a jerking sensation. The following are the reasons for transmission jerking: 1. Accumulation of dirt and impurities inside the valve body forming blockages: Persistent dirt and impurities inside the valve body prevent effective regulation of oil pressure, leading to jerking, impact, and slippage issues. 2. High temperature: High temperatures can degrade the quality and friction characteristics of automatic transmission fluid, increasing friction and wear, which causes the transmission to jerk. When temperatures exceed 120°C, rubber sealing materials harden, resulting in leaks and reduced hydraulic pressure.
As a seasoned driver with years of experience behind the wheel of a CVT-equipped vehicle, I've encountered my fair share of jerking issues. The most common culprit is transmission fluid—either insufficient levels or degraded quality, leading to inadequate lubrication and hesitant acceleration. Software glitches are another factor; early CVT control units with unstable parameters were prone to jerking at low speeds, as if the transmission was getting stuck. Belt or chain wear is typical in high-mileage vehicles, where slippage can cause sudden jerking, making the car feel like it's gasping for breath. Sensor failures, such as a malfunctioning temperature sensor causing abnormal behavior when overheating, should not be overlooked. I've learned that maintenance is key: regular fluid changes and avoiding heavy loads or aggressive acceleration can extend the transmission's lifespan. If jerking becomes frequent, don't delay—visit a professional repair shop for a diagnostic scan to prevent minor issues from escalating into major repairs. Safety comes first, as unchecked problems could lead to loss of control while driving.
