A car jerking when driving, especially during acceleration or at low speeds, can be caused by a variety of issues. Here are some common reasons:
- Worn spark plugs: Old or worn spark plugs can cause incomplete combustion, leading to engine misfires and jerking during acceleration or at low speeds. Replacing them usually smooths out the issue.
- Gearbox problems: Issues with the gearbox or low transmission fluid can cause jerking during acceleration.
- Poor quality or wrong fuel: Contaminated or incorrect fuel can cause irregular combustion and jerking.
- Faulty fuel pump: A failing fuel pump may not supply sufficient fuel to the engine, causing jerking on acceleration.
- Overheating engine: An overheating engine can lose power and jerk during acceleration.
- Clogged air filter: A dirty or clogged air filter restricts airflow to the engine, causing poor performance and jerking.
- Blocked catalytic converter: A blocked or clogged catalytic converter restricts exhaust flow and can cause jerking.
- Damaged engine cylinders or valves can reduce performance and cause jerking.
- Worn or slipping clutch (in manual cars) can cause jerking, especially when starting or shifting gears.
- Engine Control Unit (ECU) malfunction can cause irregular engine function and jerking.
Other contributors include dirty fuel injectors, faulty throttle cable, or transmission fluid issues. To diagnose and fix the issue:
- Inspect and possibly replace spark plugs and air filters.
- Check and top up transmission fluid.
- Use high-quality fuel and avoid contaminants.
- Get a professional mechanic to inspect the fuel pump, catalytic converter, and engine components if needed.
- For manuals, check the clutch condition.
If you're not comfortable with DIY fixes, it's best to take the vehicle to a trusted mechanic for a complete diagnostic to identify and fix the specific cause of the jerking. This list covers the most frequent causes of a car jerking when driving or accelerating.
