What Causes the Jerking Sensation When Braking in an Automatic Transmission Car?

[VonAshley]

Automatic transmission cars experiencing a jerking sensation when braking is often caused by sludge circulating within the transmission fluid, which can clog the oil passages in the valve body. Tips for transmission maintenance: Regularly check the automatic transmission fluid level—unlike engine oil, which is checked when the engine is cold, automatic transmission fluid should be warmed to approximately 50 degrees Celsius. Then, shift the gear lever through each position for 2 seconds before placing it in park. At this point, the dipstick's normal fluid level should be between the high and low marks. Add automatic transmission protectant to the transmission at a ratio of 5%. For older vehicles, it's advisable to add a bottle of automatic transmission leak stopper to restore aging seals and prevent leaks. Understand the replacement cycle for automatic transmission fluid: generally, it should be changed every 2 years or 40,000 to 60,000 kilometers. During normal operation, automatic transmission fluid operates at around 120 degrees Celsius, so it's essential to use high-quality transmission fluid.

[DiVincent]

I've been driving for over 20 years. The most common cause of jerking when stopping an automatic transmission car is aged or insufficient transmission fluid, which makes the torque converter's oil pressure unstable, especially during downshifts. Uneven brake rotor wear can also amplify vibrations, making you feel jerky when braking. Also, if the transmission control module malfunctions in certain models, it may delay shift responses, making the stopping process rough. It's recommended to check transmission fluid color and level every two years – replace immediately if it appears black or has a burnt smell. Neglecting this accelerates component wear, especially noticeable during hill parking. In short, whenever you notice jerking, prioritize professional diagnosis to prevent minor issues from escalating into costly repairs.

[MacZoey]

As a car owner, I've noticed that automatic transmission jerking when stopping may be related to braking habits. For example, slamming on the brakes can cause the brake discs to overheat and warp, creating a vibration sensation. The torque converter in the transmission system may not lock up smoothly when stopping, and dirty transmission fluid can exacerbate the problem. Unstable engine idling can also indirectly cause this issue, such as excessive carbon buildup or failed spark plugs causing a sudden drop in RPM, which becomes noticeable during braking. From personal experience, I recommend starting with inspecting the brake discs - either replacing the brake pads or resurfacing the rotors. Then check the transmission fluid and replace it with high-quality fluid promptly. Don't forget to practice gentle braking in daily driving to allow the system to transition smoothly, which can significantly reduce jerking and improve driving comfort.

[LaTucker]

Experiencing jerking when stopping? I suspect it's an automatic transmission issue, like a faulty torque converter lock-up causing the car to shudder before coming to a complete halt. Brake problems are also common, such as worn discs and pads, but deeper issues could involve sensor malfunctions. It's advisable to check fluid levels and perform a simple inspection of the braking system.

[RoseLee]

From my years of experience, automatic transmission parking jerks are often caused by deteriorated transmission fluid or aging brake components, leading to sluggish system response. Unstable torque converter oil pressure can create abrupt sensations during parking. The solution is to try replacing the fluid first. Suspension system issues like leaking shock absorbers can also contribute to vibrations, so pay attention to regular maintenance during daily driving.