Q: Automatic transmission jerking

asked by on March 22, 2016

The automatic transmission in my car is jerking when I shift into third gear.

Transmission Fluid Service $140.08 - $502.73 Get a Quote

Hello. A common cause of transmission hard shifting is dirty transmission fluid. I suggest checking the transmission fluid. However, it is quite likely that the cause of the transmission malfunction is that the transmission module needs reprogramming. There is an update available for the transmission module of your vehicle which pertains to harsh vehicle shifting. I suggest calling the BMW service department, give them the VIN number and they will tell you if the reprogramming have been done.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

Car accelerates, hesitates, and then runs normally.
I would have a technician diagnose the acceleration problem (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/engine-hesitates-during-acceleration-inspection). This problem could be caused from either the engine or transmission. They will need to pull codes on the car in order to determine the cause.
Broken keyless entry
Hello! The first thing that I suggest checking is the battery level of the remote. Weak batteries (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/key-fob-battery-replacement) are the leading cause for faulty key fob operation. However, on your specific vehicle, the leading cause of the malfunction is broken...
Slow leak in oil pan
Hello. Resealing an oil pan is not an easy job for someone who is not an experienced technician. I would suggest that you have a certified technician, like one from YourMechanic, come and replace the oil pan gasket (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/oil-pan-gasket-replacement).
Car coughs while driving.....sometimes.
Hi there. There are multiple potential causes of your engine's "cough". The engine that powers your 2007 Honda City has multiple sensors that help the fuel system burn fuel efficiently. Since your fuel efficiency mileage is also suffering, my initial...
If I am replacing the engine (D17) for another (D17a2), do I need a computer to match the new engine?
Hello. Swapping form a non-VTEC to a VTEC engine will require a different computer and wiring harness, as the two engines come equipped with similar, but different engine management systems. These parts are usually not difficult to source as these...
Won't start but all lights and radio work
Hi, thanks for writing in. I would start with testing your battery with a multi meter. Even though your lights and radio are working, your battery may still not have enough voltage to start the car. Good batteries hold a...
My car won't start - Hyundai Elantra
The first step that should be done is to have a certified technician, such as one from YourMechanic, download any error codes for you and diagnose your illuminated Check Engine Light (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/check-engine-light-is-on-inspection). If you have a professional digital scanner, you...
Check engine light on flashes five times stays on
Hi there. If the same code is returning, check to see if the new pig tail is installed correctly. If the wires aren't in the right position, you will have the concern you're experiencing as it could be shorting the...
What could be the causing loss of power while accelerating leading to engine stalling? 2011 Chevrolet Aveo
Hi there - based on the symptoms you describe, I suspect that either the throttle position sensor or the fuel pump (or fuel pump relay) (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/symptoms-of-a-bad-or-failing-fuel-pump-relay) are failing. The result is either incorrect throttle position reported to the engine computer,...

Related articles

Symptoms of a Bad or Failing Transmission Position Sensor (Switch)
Common signs include the car not starting or moving, transmission going into a different gear than selected, and the vehicle going into limp mode.
How to Double-Clutch Downshift a Manual Transmission Car
Learning how to double-clutch downshift on your cars manual transmission can optimize your acceleration, deceleration, and help maintain components.
Understanding the BMW Condition Based Servicing and Service Indicator Lights
Car symbols, or dashboard lights, are a car service reminder. The BMW Condition Based Servicing system indicates when and what service your car needs.