What is the reason for the jerking at low speeds with a CVT?
2 Answers
CVT low-speed jerking is caused by: this CVT transmission has simulated gears. Although it is a continuously variable transmission, it also has gear ratios. A normal CVT transmission should not produce jerking sensations. If the jerking feels very severe, it is necessary to promptly visit a 4S shop or a professional auto repair shop to have the staff inspect and identify the issue. Only by determining the root cause can the problem be properly fixed. The CVT transmission does not have clearly defined gears, and the changes in gear ratios are very continuous, resulting in smooth and uninterrupted power delivery. Representative car models that use CVT transmissions are Japanese cars, with the vast majority of Japanese automatic transmissions utilizing CVT. The advantages of CVT transmissions are smoothness, fuel efficiency, and a very seamless driving experience.
I often research transmissions and have found that CVTs exhibit jerking at low speeds, mainly due to uncalibrated electronic control systems. If the transmission control module is improperly calibrated, it can easily misjudge in low-speed ranges, leading to rough gear shifts. There's also the issue of oil pressure regulation—unstable hydraulic pressure can cause the cone belt and pulley to slip. Additionally, prolonged oil neglect, whether due to dirty or insufficient oil, can accelerate wear. I recommend getting a professional diagnosis, updating the software, or checking the oil circuit. Don't delay too long to avoid damaging the transmission. While it may run smoothly at high speeds, low-speed jerking should be addressed promptly, especially in traffic jams where it's more noticeable, affecting driving experience and wasting fuel.