Why does an automatic gearbox jerk?

If your automatic gearbox jerks, it is hard to ignore: a shove as the car pulls away, a kick between gears, a judder under load. It is not a quirk of the car — it is a signal that something inside the gearbox needs attention. Below we go through the main causes of jerking and the best way to deal with each of them.

1. Problems with the automatic gearbox oil

One of the most common causes of an automatic gearbox jerking is the wrong oil level or oil that is past its service life. Too little oil means parts of the gearbox are no longer properly lubricated, and poor lubrication shows up as jolts during gear changes. Checking the level and the condition of the oil at regular intervals is therefore key to keeping the gearbox working as it should.

2. Damaged or worn components

Jerking can also come from damaged or worn parts inside the gearbox — clutch plates, gear sets or bearings. In that case those parts have to be repaired or replaced before the gearbox will shift smoothly again.

3. Electronic faults

In a modern automatic gearbox a great many functions are controlled electronically. Faulty sensors, a failing control unit or other electronic components can make the gearbox behave incorrectly, jerking during gear changes among other symptoms. Those electronic faults then have to be diagnosed and repaired for the gearbox to work properly again.

4. Servicing and preventive maintenance

Regular servicing and inspections of an automatic gearbox help prevent a whole range of problems, jerking during gear changes included. A professional service — an oil and filter change together with a check on the condition of every component — catches potential faults early and prevents more serious damage.

Summary

Jerking from an automatic gearbox is frustrating and stressful, but understanding the main causes and keeping up with regular, preventive servicing goes a long way towards avoiding bigger trouble. Where the fault is more serious, it is worth consulting a professional mechanic or a workshop that specialises in automatic gearbox repair, so the problem can be found and put right as quickly as possible.

If your automatic gearbox is still jerking, do get in touch with us in Deszkowice Drugie near Sułów — automatic gearbox repair is our specialisation and we are glad to help you get to the bottom of the problem. A repair here can be quick and effective, so contact us today.