What Causes Low-Speed Jerking?
2 Answers
Transmission jerking is the impact sensation caused by the inertia of moving parts inside the engine. The following are the reasons for jerking: 1. Engine jerking: During the process where engine speed is either raised or lowered, if not handled properly, sudden changes in engine speed during gear shifts can cause the inertia of the engine's internal moving parts to react against the vehicle body. 2. Low-speed jerking: When driving at low speeds, frequent gear shifts between first and second gears cause the clutch to repeatedly disengage and engage, preventing smooth power transmission in a short time, resulting in common low-speed jerking. Jerking sensations may occur during startup and low-speed driving.
I've been driving for quite some years and have encountered low-speed jerking several times. At first, I thought it was due to uneven roads, but later when I noticed the car body shaking and unstable acceleration, I realized it was an internal vehicle issue. The most common cause is aging or burnt-out spark plugs, especially in older cars where the ignition system can't keep up, leading to incomplete combustion, which is particularly noticeable at low speeds. Another reason is clogged fuel injectors, which cause uneven fuel delivery, making the engine jerk like it's gasping for breath. Additionally, a dirty mass airflow sensor in my old car can also cause intake imbalance, making the drive feel rough. Ignoring these issues can lead to oil burning or increased fuel consumption over time, so I always get them checked immediately, preferably at a repair shop with a diagnostic scanner for peace of mind.
