What Causes Transmission Jerking in Dodge Journey?

[Cheyenne]

Here are the specific reasons for transmission jerking in Dodge Journey: 1. Engine oil passage blockage: The combustion of fuel, which is also the power source of the engine, is determined by engine ignition, intake, and fuel injectors. If the intake volume decreases, ignition weakens, or the amount of injected fuel reduces, the power will be insufficient, leading to a jerking sensation. 2. Dirty transmission fluid: This can cause damage to the solenoid valve. If there is sludge in the transmission fluid circulating and blocking the oil passages in the valve body, jerking issues will occur. Over time, this can lead to a series of transmission problems such as overheating, impact, and slipping. 3. Break-in period: Slight jerking during car driving is normal because the power output of the vehicle and the meshing of components are not at their optimal levels. Additionally, the transmission computer has a self-learning mechanism that requires continuous adjustment of oil pressure for shifting.

[SanSamantha]

I've thought about the Dodge Journey's transmission jerking issue many times. Common causes include aging or insufficient transmission fluid, which leads to unstable oil pressure and causes shaking during gear shifts. Solenoid valve malfunctions are also frequent—they regulate oil flow, and if clogged or damaged, the transmission will jerk. Clutch wear or imbalance can cause similar issues. Sometimes, control module software errors result in inaccurate signal processing, leading to unexpected jerking. I suggest not delaying—get the fluid quality and error codes checked at a professional shop. Early repairs mean peace of mind; ignoring it long-term could lead to major overhauls, costing both money and hassle. Regular maintenance is key—changing the fluid and filter can keep things running smoothly for years.

[ColeFitz]

Friends who have driven the Journey know that the transmission jerking is quite annoying. From my experience, it's mostly due to degraded fluid or a faulty solenoid valve. If the fluid isn't changed on time, it thickens and affects flow, causing rough shifting. When the solenoid valve gets stuck, signal transmission gets messed up, and the car shakes violently. I've also encountered situations where severely worn clutch discs cause similar issues. It's best to have a mechanic run a computer diagnostic on the system early on. Spending a few hundred bucks to replace the parts can solve the problem. When driving normally, avoid stomping on the gas pedal—being gentle with the transmission not only reduces the chance of jerking but also saves money and hassle in the long run.

[Arwen]

Transmission jerking in the Dodge Journey typically has two main causes: first, insufficient or dirty transmission fluid hindering lubrication; second, solenoid valve failure affecting the oil pump operation. Control module errors or unstable sensor signals can also be contributing factors. Don't attempt DIY fixes—take the vehicle to a repair shop for quick diagnosis. A simple code clearing or fluid top-up may resolve the issue.