Why Does a Manual Transmission Car Jerk During Acceleration?

[LaJayce]

During gear changes in the transmission, the engine speed undergoes variations. If the transmission fails to handle this process smoothly, causing abrupt changes in engine RPM during shifting, the inertia of the engine operation will react against the vehicle. This leads to sudden changes in vehicle speed, resulting in a jerking sensation. Manual transmissions are particularly prone to jerking during rapid acceleration, with the severity increasing the deeper the throttle is pressed. If jerking occurs during sudden acceleration when it previously didn't or was minimal, this may indicate a vehicle malfunction. Lower gears exhibit higher torque multiplication ratios but also more pronounced jerking. Wider gear ratio spacing between gears creates larger RPM differences during shifts, making jerking more noticeable. Potential causes for sudden jerking during acceleration include: 1. Faulty spark plugs or ignition coils - Worn spark plugs that haven't been replaced timely can reduce ignition efficiency or cause misfires. 2. Excessive carbon buildup - Long-term accumulation on throttle bodies, fuel injectors, and intake passages can reduce engine power. 3. Substandard fuel quality - Poor combustion in the engine affects performance. 4. Contaminated transmission - Manual transmission fluid should be changed every 60,000 km; dirty internal components can disrupt oil pressure, leading to jerking.