Why Does the Automatic Transmission Make a Clunking Sound When Shifting Gears?
2 Answers
Reasons for the clunking sound when shifting gears in an automatic transmission: 1. Shifting while the car is not completely stopped: If the car is shifted into P gear before coming to a complete stop, the P gear lock hook inside the transmission will hit the gear, producing a clunking sound; 2. Incorrect operation sequence when parking on a slope: When parking on a slope, the handbrake should be engaged first before shifting into P gear. If P gear is engaged first and then the handbrake, the vehicle's sliding force will be entirely borne by the P gear lock hook, causing the lock hook and gear to be under tension. At this time, shifting from P gear to other gears will produce a sound; 3. Malfunction in the gear shift mechanism: After prolonged use or exposure to erosion, the connecting parts of the gear shift mechanism can become loose or stuck, resulting in a sound when shifting gears; 4. Wear and tear on the transmission gears: The meshing of transmission gears is very tight, and because of this tight meshing, wear and tear are inevitable. Over time, larger gaps will form between the gear teeth, causing a sound when shifting gears.
When your automatic transmission car makes a clunking sound while shifting gears, it's often due to a minor issue with the transmission system. As a car owner, I've encountered this too. The most common causes are insufficient or dirty transmission fluid—the fluid is crucial for lubrication, and low levels or degraded quality can easily cause strange noises during gear shifts. Additionally, if the connecting parts of the shifting mechanism are loose or worn, such as aging linkages or bushings, they can produce that unpleasant sound when shifting. Another possibility is damaged engine mounts or transmission mounts, which secure the car and can cause vibrations and noise when faulty. I must remind you: if this sound occurs frequently and is particularly loud, get it checked at a professional shop immediately to avoid more serious issues like internal gear damage. Regular checks of fluids and fasteners can save a lot of trouble—I personally check the dipstick monthly and stick to the fluid change schedule. Safety first, right?
