Transmission Shuddering
Your vehicle shakes or vibrates during gear changes.
Quick Assessment
We recommend scheduling service within the next few weeks.
Estimated repair cost:
$150 - $3,500
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Symptoms & Causes
Symptoms to Watch For
- 1Vehicle shakes during gear changes
- 2Vibration at certain speeds
- 3Shudder when torque converter locks up
- 4Jerky acceleration
- 5Shaking under light throttle
- 6Vibration that comes and goes
- 7Worsening vibration over time
Common Causes
- Torque converter clutch problems
- Contaminated or degraded fluid
- Worn clutch plates
- Failed lockup solenoid
- Internal transmission wear
- Motor mount failure
- U-joint or CV joint problems
Understanding Transmission Shuddering
Transmission shuddering causes your vehicle to shake or vibrate, often most noticeable during gear changes or at certain speeds. It's commonly felt when the torque converter clutch engages, typically around 35-45 mph. This shudder can range from mild vibration to severe shaking that makes the vehicle uncomfortable to drive. Addressing this early can prevent more serious transmission damage.
Repair Options
Depending on the cause and severity, here are the typical repair approaches for transmission shuddering:
- Transmission fluid service with additive
- Solenoid replacement
- Torque converter replacement
- Clutch pack replacement
- Motor mount replacement
- Transmission rebuild
Cost Factors
The repair cost for transmission shuddering ($150 - $3,500) depends on several factors:
What Happens If You Ignore It?
While transmission shuddering may start as a minor annoyance, it typically worsens over time. What might be a simple repair today could become a major rebuild if left unaddressed.
Transmission Shuddering FAQ
This is often torque converter clutch shudder, occurring when the lockup clutch engages. It's commonly caused by degraded transmission fluid or wear on the torque converter clutch material.
Sometimes. Fresh fluid with the proper friction modifiers can resolve mild shudder, especially in vehicles like Ford trucks known for torque converter shudder. More severe cases may need additional repairs.
While not immediately dangerous, ignoring shudder can lead to worse problems. The underlying cause may damage other transmission components if not addressed, leading to more expensive repairs.
Next Steps for Transmission Shuddering
Ready to get your transmission fixed? Here's what to do next.
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Experiencing Transmission Shuddering?
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Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is for educational purposes only and should not be considered a professional diagnosis. Symptoms, causes, and repair costs are general guidelines based on industry data and may vary based on your specific vehicle and situation. Always consult with a certified transmission specialist for an accurate diagnosis and repair recommendation.