Why is there a jerking sensation when shifting gears in an automatic transmission?
2 Answers
Reasons for jerking sensation when shifting gears in an automatic transmission: 1. Transmission clutch pressure leakage; 2. Blockage or poor flow in the transmission oil circuit; 3. Insufficient transmission oil level; 4. Damaged solenoid valve. An automatic transmission does not require the driver to manually shift gears; the vehicle automatically selects the appropriate gear based on driving speed and traffic conditions. The gear positions in an automatic transmission car, from top to bottom, are: P (Parking/Start), R (Reverse), N (Neutral), D (Drive), S (Sport mode), and L (Low gear). The automatic transmission uses planetary gear mechanisms to shift gears automatically based on the degree of throttle pedal input and changes in vehicle speed.
I've been driving for over 20 years, and experiencing jerky gear shifts in automatic transmissions is nothing new. Last time my old car kept stuttering during acceleration, as if I was hitting the brakes. Turned out the transmission fluid had aged, with its viscosity too high affecting lubrication. A fluid change made it much smoother. If you're doing it yourself, first check if any warning lights are on the dashboard, then pop the hood to inspect the dipstick. If the fluid level is too low or looks dirty, change it immediately. This issue can range from minor to serious—if neglected, the clutch plates might wear out faster, and repairing the entire transmission won't come cheap. Fortunately, simple maintenance usually does the trick. Developing a habit of regular transmission fluid changes saves a lot of hassle in the long run.
