What Causes Jerking in Automatic Transmission Cars?
3 Answers
Reasons and solutions for gear shifting jerking in automatic transmission cars: 1. Internal clutch pressure leakage in the transmission. Inspect for clutch damage and carry out repairs. 2. Blockage or poor flow in the transmission oil circuit. Wear in the oil circuit plate, long-term lack of transmission oil change leading to deterioration and reduced lubrication effectiveness, excessively dirty transmission filter affecting filtration, causing wear particles to enter the valve body. 3. Transmission oil not filled to the standard level. Verify if the transmission oil is at the standard level; both insufficient and excessive transmission oil can cause this issue. For vehicles with a transmission dipstick, check if the oil level is at the standard mark when the engine is running. 4. Solenoid valve damage. Sludge in the transmission oil circulating and blocking the oil passages in the valve body can lead to jerking issues. Prolonged conditions may result in transmission overheating, impact, slippage, and a series of other transmission problems.
I've been driving automatic transmission cars for many years and found that jerking is quite common. The most frequent issue is transmission problems, such as deteriorated or insufficient transmission fluid, which can make gear shifts less smooth, causing the car to jerk. It could also be due to aging components inside the transmission, like worn clutches or faulty sensors, leading to unstable RPM. Additionally, problems with the engine's ignition system can cause this, such as spark plugs with excessive carbon buildup failing to ignite properly, resulting in jerking during acceleration. I usually pay attention to regular oil changes and maintenance to avoid these issues. Checking fluid levels and listening for unusual noises can help; if the car keeps shaking while driving, it's best to visit a repair shop to prevent long-term damage. Driving habits also matter—sudden braking or rapid acceleration can worsen the jerking.
As a car enthusiast, I believe that jerky sensations mostly stem from the transmission. If the transmission fluid is overdue for a change, it becomes thick and clogs the flow channels, causing gear shifts to stutter. Damage to components like the valve body or gears inside the transmission can also trigger issues, as worn parts create gaps. Faulty control units, such as TCU circuit malfunctions, may cause erratic commands. Dirty engine ignition coils or fuel injectors disrupting stable fuel supply can also contribute. Regularly check the color and viscosity of fluids—new fluid appears clear while old fluid turns dark. You can briefly inspect the dashboard for warning lights yourself, but for deeper analysis, visit a professional shop to read fault codes with diagnostic tools. Try cleaning the system before replacing new parts.
