If a car jerks when it is shifted from park into reverse, it can be an indication that there is something wrong with the transmission. There are a few things that could be causing this issue, and it will likely need to be repaired by a professional mechanic. The cost of repairing this issue will vary depending on the specific problem. In this blog post, we will explore what might be causing your car to jerk when you shift from park into reverse and the steps you should take if you ever find this happening to your vehicle.
Possible Causes For A Car To Jerk When Shifted Into Reverse?
There are a number of possible causes for this to be happening, below are some of the most common we have seen
Transmission Fluid Needs Attention
Transmission fluid is a type of oil used to lubricate, clean and cool the moving parts of your car’s transmission. It helps keep your car’s transmission in good working order by preventing metal-to-metal contact between the moving parts. Transmission fluid also helps to keep your car’s transmission cooler by drawing heat away from the moving parts. Over time, transmission fluid can become dirty and need to be replaced and this can cause issues if left too long.
Jerky gear changes can be caused by low transmission fluid levels and/or dirty transmission fluid. If you are experiencing jerky gear changes such as going into reverse from park, you should have your car checked by a mechanic to diagnose the problem. Changing your transmission fluid and using the correct type of fluid can solve this issue and help to prevent jerky gear changes in the future.
Cost Of Repair?
The average cost to change transmission fluid is between $75 and $120. This price does not include the cost of the transmission filter, which is typically around $20. Transmission fluid should be changed every 30,000 miles or every two years, whichever comes first.
If you plan on changing your own transmission fluid, you will need to purchase a few supplies. You will need fresh transmission fluid, a catch pan, gloves, rags and a funnel. The process itself is not too difficult, but it is important that you take your time and do it correctly.
Bad /Worn Engine Mounts
If your engine mounts are bad or worn, it can cause your car to jerk when shifting from park into reverse gear. This is because the engine is not properly supported and can move around too much when you shift gears. Engine mounts are made of metal and rubber, and over time they can wear out or break down, which can cause this problem. If you notice that your car is jerking when you shift from park to reverse, it’s a good idea to have your engine mounts checked by a mechanic. In some cases, they may need to be replaced.
Cost Of Repair?
Replacing or repairing engine mounts can be a costly endeavor, depending on the make and model of your vehicle. The cost to replace an engine mount can range from $200 to $600, while repairing an engine mount may only cost between $50 and $100. If you’re experiencing problems with your car’s engine mounts, it’s best to consult with a mechanic or automotive specialist to get an estimate of the repair costs.
Depending on the severity of the problem, they may recommend replacing or repairing the engine mounts as soon as possible. In some cases, however, it may not be necessary to replace or repair engine mounts right away and you may be able to wait until your next scheduled maintenance appointment.
Torque Converter Issues
A torque converter is a vital part of an automatic transmission. It is responsible for transferring the engine’s rotational energy to the transmission fluid, which in turn powers the car’s wheels. A faulty torque converter can cause jerky shifts on an automatic transmission, including from park to reverse
There are several symptoms that can indicate a problem with the torque converter. If the car hesitates when shifting gears, or if it feels like it is being pushed back when accelerating, these could be signs of a problem. Additionally, if the car seems to stall when coming to a stop, this may also be indicative of an issue with the torque converter.
Cost Of Repair?
A torque converter is an essential part of a car’s transmission system, and if it goes bad, it can be very expensive to fix or replace. The cost of the parts and labor can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars, depending on the make and model of the car. In some cases, the damage may be so severe that the entire transmission needs to be replaced, which can cost even more.
If you’re facing a repair bill for a bad torque converter, it’s important to shop around and get multiple estimates before making a decision. With such a large expense, you’ll want to be sure you’re getting the best possible deal
Tips For Keeping Your Transmission Healthy
If you have an automatic transmission, there are a few things you can do to keep it healthy and prolong its life. Here are our top five tips:
– Get your car serviced regularly. This includes checking the transmission fluid level and condition, as well as having the system flushed and refilled according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
– Avoid excessive idling. When you’re stopped in traffic or at a red light, your car is still running and using transmission fluid. So if you can, avoid idling for long periods of time.
– Don’t overload your car. An overloaded vehicle puts extra stress on the engine and transmission, which can lead to damage. So make sure you’re not carrying more weight than your car can handle.
– Drive gently. Sudden starts and stops, as well as aggressive driving, can be hard on the transmission. So take it easy when you’re behind the wheel and avoid fast accelerations and sudden braking.
– Watch for warning signs. If you notice any strange noises or leaks coming from your car, or if the transmission seems to be slipping or shifting oddly, have it checked out by a professional right away. These could be signs of a serious problem that needs to be addressed before it gets worse.
By following these simple tips, you can help keep your car’s automatic transmission in good condition for many years to come.
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