What Causes the Jerking Sensation When Shifting to Neutral in an Automatic Transmission?
2 Answers
Automatic transmission jerking when shifting to neutral may be caused by clutch pressure leakage in the transmission, blocked or obstructed transmission fluid passages, insufficient transmission fluid levels, or damaged solenoid valves. The engine's power is transmitted through the transmission, which is also a key factor affecting fuel consumption. Generally, automatic transmissions consume over 10% more fuel than manual transmissions. Below are some common reasons for high fuel consumption: 1. Improper driving habits: Fuel consumption is closely related to the driver's habits, such as prolonged idling without turning off the engine or frequent starting, aggressive acceleration or frequent braking, driving at high speeds in low gears or low speeds in high gears, etc. These habits significantly contribute to increased fuel consumption. 2. Abnormal tire pressure and tire wear: Low tire pressure increases friction between the tires and the road, leading to greater resistance and higher fuel consumption. The normal tire pressure is around 2.5 bar, which can be slightly reduced by 0.1 bar in summer. However, tire pressure should not be too high either; it's best to inflate according to the vehicle's standard values. Additionally, severely worn tires can cause frequent slipping, which also increases fuel consumption. 3. Fuel quality and carbon deposits: Many drivers overlook fuel quality. Poor-quality gasoline can lead to increased carbon deposits, which roughen the intake pipe walls, affecting air intake efficiency and the quality of the air-fuel mixture, thereby drastically increasing fuel consumption. Therefore, fuel quality should not be ignored. Regular maintenance at a 4S shop is a forward-looking investment, as it not only ensures the vehicle's normal performance but also saves unnecessary expenses in the long run.
Last time I drove my uncle's decade-old Accord, I encountered this exact issue - the car suddenly jerked when shifted to Neutral. After some troubleshooting, I found the engine mount rubber had hardened with age, cracked like a tortoise shell, causing the entire body to shake along with the engine vibration. This tremor transmitted to the driver's seat felt like gearshift roughness. Another common culprit is overdue transmission fluid changes - especially after 5-6 years without replacement. The metal-contaminated fluid can partially clog valve body components. Recently when a friend asked whether to shift to Neutral at red lights, I advised against it: keeping it in Drive with brakes on costs merely half a cup of extra fuel, but frequent gear changes risking transmission failure means five-figure repair bills. If the car creeps forward in Neutral, immediately inspect the driveshaft cushion rubber - that's always the smoking gun.
