Q: Transmission jerks when changing gears when in drive.

asked by on September 13, 2016

When I first start up and go from park to drive, the transmission will jerk into gear. Once I get started it will jerk again when changing gears, after driving for awhile it will shift normally.

My car has 72472 miles.
My car has an automatic transmission.

Engine Mount Replacement $132.06 - $1865.27 Get a Quote
Axle / CV Shaft Assembly Replacement $216.91 - $1118.08 Get a Quote

Hello. This can be caused by a failing transmission, but there are other parts that need to be checked first. It can also be caused by worn out engine mounts or a bad cv axle. I usually check the mounts and the axles first. If any of these are bad they will have excessive play. If these parts are fine, then the transmission pressures need to be checked to see if it is just a pressure issue or if there is an internal failure. This would mean that the transmission needs to be rebuilt. I would have a transmission specialist take a look at it.

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

Gas filler door stuck, almost ran out of fuel
The fuel door on the Santa Fe has an electrical actuator to open the door and a back up release cable inside the vehicle near the door. The two main causes for the fuel door to not open are either...
I'm hearing popping noises and rattles when I drive or go over pot holes
Hello. Unfortunately it sounds like you may have replaced some parts that may not have been needed. The most common cause of this noise on your vehicle is the front struts and the front stabilizer link pins. I start by...
Water disappearing from radiator, white smoke
I've got a video that is called "fixing an overheating car (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=evpaTW2WJ5Y)." It shows every possible thing that can go wrong and it's only four minutes long so watch it and test that. You'll want to try the last test...
Leaking transmission fluid
You are on the right track by checking the fluid and staying on top of keeping it filled while it leaks. Unfortunately, a transmission sealer/stopper will likely not fix this due to the friction involved with a bearing a gasket...
I can wobble the power steering pulley and the belt keeps coming off. Do I need to replace the whole power steering pump?
With no information on the make and model of your vehicle, the information we can give you may or may not pertain to your vehicle. On most make and models, yes you can swap out the pulley by itself. You...
My truck runs till it gets warm then acts like it has no power.
Hi there. It seems that your vehicle has multiple malfunctions that are happening at the same time. The idle air control valve has a fault, evaporative emission system has a large leak, the gear ratio is incorrect, and knock sensor...
My 1997 mercury villager shakes or visit vibrakes when moving and engine shakes a little under hood and car sounds a little like r
Sometimes there are multiple causes, or sources, of vehicle vibration. Based on your description, the vibration might be due, at least in part, to faulty motor mounts. To check for engine-mount problems, you can try shifting from "neutral" to "drive"...
Car accelerates and then completely stop accelerating at 25 or 40 mph.
Hi Joel. What you are describing is typically an indication that your Jetta has entered what's called a "limp mode". This happens when the ECU detects a problem with the transmission. It activates a fail safe mode to restrict the...
When I turn sharp left and accelerate from a stop there is a grind at a certain point in the turn.
I suspect that you have a bad wheel bearing in the right front hub and when pressure is put on it in turns the bearing is grinding or the brake rotor is rubbing the caliper bracket. Have the brakes and...

Related articles

How Does a Clutch Work in a Manual Transmission?
The The clutch in a car transmission is what works to engage and disengage the drive shaft’s moving parts. In a manual transmission, the driver has to manipulate a pedal or a lever in order to shift gears. The clutch...
The Best Used Cars to Buy If Safety is #1
Maybe Maybe you’re a parent buying the first car for your teenager, or perhaps you’re a new parent and the safety of your little one is of the utmost importance. Or perhaps you're a safety-minded individual looking to make a...
Understanding the Kia Maintenance Reminder and Service Indicator Lights
Car symbols, or dashboard lights, are a car service reminder. The Kia Service Required light indicates when your car needs service.