Why is there noticeable jerking after changing the engine oil?
4 Answers
Noticeable jerking after changing the engine oil is due to issues with transmission calibration or potential internal engine faults. Transmission calibration issues: The main function of the transmission is to adjust the speed ratio between the engine and the wheels, expanding the range of speed variations to adapt to different driving conditions. Therefore, the transmission can reduce this jerking sensation to some extent, making power output smoother. Generally, the better the transmission and engine are matched, the less noticeable this jerking will be. Internal engine faults: For example, if components such as spark plugs or ignition coils inside the engine malfunction, it can lead to weak acceleration, severe shaking, and noticeable jerking while driving. Additionally, if the fuel pump becomes clogged or fails, fuel pressure will drop, preventing proper fuel atomization and combustion. This can cause carbon buildup in the engine, affecting its lifespan, and also result in weak acceleration and noticeable jerking during gear shifts.
Right after I changed the engine oil, the car suddenly had some jerking sensations, like the engine was twitching. I asked the mechanic, and he said it might be because the wrong oil viscosity was chosen. For example, if the car requires 5W-30 but you used 10W-40, the oil flows slower, and the engine lubrication can't keep up, increasing friction. Another possibility is that air got into the oil lines during the oil change, or the oil filter wasn't tightened properly and is leaking. He suggested not driving it urgently and to first check the oil dipstick to see if the level is correct and the color is clear. If any issues are found, it's best to change the oil again or have it checked at a professional shop to avoid damaging the transmission. When changing oil, always remember to use the specified type and supervise the process. These small details shouldn't be overlooked, as skipping them can lead to more trouble.
After an oil change, I feel a noticeable jerkiness which I suspect is related to lubrication system adjustments. Engine operation relies on oil for uniform lubrication; when viscosity changes, piston rings and valves may stick, causing vibrations. Possible causes include using low-quality oil or incompatible additives that cleaned old residues but failed to fill gaps. Additionally, a clogged or improperly installed oil filter can reduce oil pressure, affecting smoothness. Check your vehicle manual for the recommended oil grade to ensure the new oil's viscosity matches. Avoid high-speed testing—first visit a shop to scan for potential false error codes from sensors. Addressing these minor issues promptly can protect the engine and extend its lifespan.
After years of driving, jerking often occurs after an oil change, with various causes but quick solutions. It might be due to too much or too little oil, or old oil not being fully drained and mixing with new oil, causing uneven lubrication. It's recommended to stop driving immediately and check: pull out the dipstick to see if the oil level is between min and max, and if the color is cloudy, a rechange is needed. At the shop, they can test oil pressure and the condition of the filter—most likely an installation issue. Don't wait for it to worsen and cause transmission failure; safety comes first. Usually, doing it yourself with a reliable brand of oil saves trouble.
