Why does the manual transmission jerk when accelerating in second and third gears?
2 Answers
Manual transmission jerking when accelerating in second and third gears is mainly caused by poor clutch-throttle coordination, substandard fuel quality, spark plug failure, and other reasons. Poor clutch-throttle coordination: When the engine speed and clutch disc speed are not synchronized, it will cause a jerk when releasing the clutch. Substandard fuel quality: Using substandard fuel that does not burn completely can also cause the car to jerk. Spark plug failure: Faulty spark plugs or ignition coils can also lead to jerking sensations. Solutions: When lifting the clutch to the half-engaged point, pause briefly, or slightly press the accelerator while releasing the clutch to add a bit of throttle, which can help avoid car jerking.
I've been driving manual transmission cars for over a decade. The jerking sensation when accelerating in 2nd or 3rd gear is usually caused by releasing the clutch too quickly and poor coordination with the throttle. When upshifting from 2nd to 3rd gear or accelerating in 3rd gear, the engine RPM hasn't caught up with the throttle input, causing power interruption. This commonly occurs in low RPM ranges due to insufficient engine torque output, resulting in stuttering. Check if the clutch disc is worn, if the fuel line is blocked, and spark plug carbon buildup may also worsen the problem. When shifting gears, apply throttle gently and anticipate RPM changes in advance. Avoid sudden acceleration or stomping on the gas, and practice more on flat roads to get familiar with your car's rhythm. It's more likely to happen in cold weather - warming up the engine for a minute or two can significantly improve the situation. Remember, good driving habits are key. Regular maintenance of transmission fluid and ignition system will greatly reduce the jerking sensation.
