Why does the Audi A4 experience jerking when accelerating at low speeds?
3 Answers
Audi A4 experiences jerking when accelerating at low speeds because the vehicle's computer has a relatively vague boundary between idle coasting and acceleration, leading to delays and resulting in jerking. Automotive Power Performance: Automotive power performance refers to the average driving speed that a vehicle can achieve when driving straight on good road surfaces, determined by the longitudinal external forces acting on the vehicle. It is one of the most fundamental and important performance metrics of a car. It is primarily evaluated based on three indicators: maximum speed, acceleration time, and maximum gradient. Vehicle Acceleration Time: Vehicle acceleration time is commonly evaluated using the standing start acceleration time and the overtaking acceleration time. The standing start acceleration time refers to the time required for a vehicle to accelerate from a standstill to a predetermined distance or speed with maximum acceleration. The overtaking acceleration time refers to the time required for a vehicle to accelerate from a certain lower speed to a higher speed with full power.
I've been driving an Audi A4 for several years, and the jerking sensation at low speeds when accelerating is quite annoying, especially in traffic jams where light throttle inputs make the car lurch forward intermittently. A common cause is the design issue with the dual-clutch transmission, where the semi-engaged state of the clutch during low-speed crawling can lead to improper coordination, resulting in vibrations and delayed response. I've noticed it becomes more pronounced when the air conditioning is on in summer, possibly due to increased engine load affecting output smoothness. Outdated software versions can also trigger this issue, so timely updates at the 4S shop can help alleviate it. Don’t forget to check the fuel system during routine maintenance—a dirty fuel filter might cause uneven fuel delivery. Generally, adopting a gentle driving habit can avoid most jerking issues, but if it persists, have a professional shop inspect the transmission adaptation values.
From maintenance experience, the low-speed acceleration jerking in Audi A4 mainly occurs in the transmission clutch components. The dual-clutch structure is prone to slipping or wear at low RPMs, resulting in uneven acceleration. Turbocharging has a lag feeling when idling and accelerating, making the car feel like it's surging and stopping. Sensors such as dirty air flow meters can also send incorrect signals, interfering with engine control. It is recommended to regularly clean the throttle and update the software to prevent the problem from worsening. If the clutch plate problem is accompanied by abnormal noises, it should be replaced as soon as possible to avoid long-term driving damage to the chassis. Simple self-inspection methods include testing the response in neutral gear when parked to rule out the influence of other factors.
