Car Jerks When Shifting
A jerk at the shift point is the transmission, not the engine, unless it also misfires. Read the transmission module, not only the engine module.
What it feels like
- A hard clunk as it goes into the next gear
- The engine revs up before the car catches, a flare
- A delay when you put it in drive from park
- It is worse when the transmission is cold
Codes that usually produce this
Check these first, in this order
Free checks first. Nothing here costs money except the fuel you burn.
- 1
Read the transmission module codes with a scanner that reaches the TCM.
What you'll seeA specific transmission code. P0700 alone is only a request from the TCM.
- 2
Pull the transmission dipstick and check fluid level and color on a white rag.
What you'll seeRed and translucent at the hot mark. Brown or burnt means it has been running hot.
- 3
Note exactly when the jerk happens: first shift out of park, rolling upshift, or under hard acceleration.
What you'll seeA clear pattern. Each one points at a different circuit.
Stop and get it looked at if
- It drops into limp mode and locks into one gear.
- It slips so badly the car will not climb a hill.
- Fluid pours out from under the car.