Few things are as scary as a sudden jerk while you’re in your car, especially if you just started driving. If you’re noticing a small shake whenever you try to shift gears, we have some good insight that will be helpful.
We understand how annoying and distracting this can be, but ignoring this problem might just make it worse in some cases. Some easy fixes include changing faulty parts like spark plugs or just switching out your transmission fluid. However, if you face doubts, it’s best to take them to professionals.
Let us tell you more about car jerks when switching gears and fixes for it.
Car Jerk When Switching Gears: Signs to Watch Out for
There are several ways to understand that there might be issues when you are shifting gears.
Noises
You might hear some accompanying noises that weren’t there before. These include louder noises when just starting your engine or ticking noises from near the front.
Jerk
This is the obvious sudden jerk that you feel when shifting gears. The car experiences an abrupt jump.
Shuddering Or Shaking
Sometimes the jerk can turn into small bouts of shaking or shuddering. If it’s persistent, consult a local mechanic to take a look.
Burnt Or Unusual Smell
A burnt smell can hint at fuel leaks which should be managed immediately. While this can indicate a variety of other issues, to avoid any potential harm to yourself and your car, get it checked as soon as you can.
What Might Be Causing The Jerking
There are several possibilities for why this could arise, including small ones and more complex, hard-to-fix ones. Let’s check out all the possible ones.
Low Inexperience With Shifting Gears
One issue beginners might run into is the incorrect use of the accelerator and clutch. Not letting go of the clutch when stepping down on the accelerator while changing gears can suddenly increase your engine’s rpm, effectively causing a little jerk.
Fuel
The problem may be as simple as running low on fuel, so it’s best to fill your tank and assess your car right after to see if the jerking persists.
Clutch
You might be facing trouble with your clutch. Some clutch parts may be damaged or not of good quality, to begin with. Worn-out parts can easily interfere with your coordination and make for a bad driving experience.
Spark Plugs
A faulty or damaged spark plug can disrupt the electrical cable connections, making them unreliable. If you possess the skills to replace them, it should be sufficient to get your car up and running like before in no time.
Catalytic Converters
Blockages in your catalytic converter can be one of the culprits behind this. Any good catalytic converter cleaner should clear the blockages for you and hopefully stop the shaking.
Fixes To Minimize Jerking Or Eliminate The Problem
Unless the trouble is in your coordination, check out the following fixes to find a suitable solution.
Replacing Parts
Small replacements can not only eliminate any existing problems, but they can also make driving smoother too, depending on your circumstances.
It is advised that you get a good grasp of how to make the parts last and how frequently they need greasing and maintenance to ensure the best performance. Besides, any worn-out parts should be timely replaced to avoid such conditions.
Clearing Blockages
Blockages can be cleaned with various easy-to-use products available.
Check In With Professionals
This is recommended to those that are just starting out and haven’t developed their skills much just yet. Remember, if you’re doubtful, leave it to the professionals to take care of.
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