Is Your Car Shifting Roughly? Here's What It Could Mean

If your vehicle jerks, hesitates, or clunks when shifting gears, it’s more than just a driving nuisance—it could be a warning sign. Rough shifting often points to deeper issues within your car's transmission system, and catching these early can save you from costly repairs and performance problems down the road.

Whether you drive an automatic or manual, your vehicle should transition between gears smoothly. If it doesn’t, here’s what you need to know about what’s going wrong, why it matters, and how to fix it.

What Is Rough Shifting?

Rough shifting refers to any noticeable jolt, hesitation, or noise that occurs when your vehicle changes gears. These transitions should be nearly seamless, especially in automatic transmissions. If you experience a harsh gear change, something may be wrong beneath the surface.

Common symptoms of rough shifting include:

• Delayed engagement when shifting from park to drive or reverse
• Hesitation before a gear catches
• A “thud” or jerk during acceleration or deceleration
• Higher RPMs than normal before shifting

Ignoring these signs can lead to accelerated transmission wear, reduced fuel efficiency, and—in worst cases—total transmission failure.

Common Causes of Rough Shifting

A rough-shifting car doesn’t always signal transmission failure, but it’s definitely not something to overlook. Here are the most common causes:

1. Low or Contaminated Transmission Fluid

Transmission fluid lubricates and cools your transmission while also helping maintain hydraulic pressure. If it’s dirty, burned, or low, your transmission can struggle to shift correctly.

Signs to watch for:

• Overheating transmission
• Slipping gears
• Delayed gear engagement
• A burning smell

What to do: Check the fluid level and condition (if your vehicle has a dipstick). A fluid flush or replacement might be needed. A certified technician at AAMCO can help determine the best maintenance path for your vehicle.

2. Worn Clutch (Manual Transmissions)

In manual transmissions, the clutch connects and disconnects the engine from the drivetrain. A worn or damaged clutch can disrupt smooth gear changes.

Symptoms include:

• Grinding noise while shifting
• Slipping out of gear
• Sticky or unresponsive clutch pedal

What to do: You may need clutch repair or replacement. Getting this checked early can prevent further damage to your transmission components.

3. Failing Transmission Solenoids

Solenoids are electronic components that regulate fluid flow in automatic transmissions. When they malfunction, shifting becomes erratic or delayed.

Warning signs:

• Hard or unpredictable gear shifts
• Delayed shifting response

What to do: A professional diagnostic scan at AAMCO can identify faulty solenoids quickly, allowing for targeted repairs.

4. Worn Bands or Gears in the Transmission

Inside automatic transmissions, bands and gears control shifting mechanics. With time and use, these can wear down—especially in vehicles that haven’t been properly maintained.

Symptoms:

• Gear slippage
• Grinding noises
• Inability to shift properly at the right speeds

What to do: This often requires more involved repairs or a transmission rebuild. AAMCO’s advanced diagnostic tools can pinpoint the root cause.

5. Computer or Sensor Failures

Modern cars rely heavily on electronic control systems to manage shifting. A faulty sensor or outdated software can throw the whole system off.

Indicators include:

• Inconsistent gear changes
• Warning lights on the dashboard
• Drop in overall performance

What to do: AAMCO technicians can run computer diagnostics to check for sensor faults or software issues and provide accurate solutions.

6. Engine or Driveline Mount Issues

Sometimes, the issue lies outside the transmission. Faulty engine mounts, transmission mounts, or problems with the driveshaft can cause noticeable jolts when shifting.

Look for:

• Vibration or shaking during acceleration
• Clunking sounds from under the vehicle
• Jerky transitions between gears

What to do: A full vehicle inspection will help identify whether the problem is transmission-related or part of the driveline system.

What Happens If You Ignore Rough Shifting?

Putting off transmission service can lead to more than just a bumpy ride. Here’s what’s at risk:

• Complete Transmission Failure: Ignored symptoms can lead to total breakdown.
• High Repair Costs: What could’ve been a simple fluid change might turn into a multi-thousand-dollar rebuild.
• Decreased Fuel Efficiency: Rough gear changes make your engine work harder, which burns more gas.
• Safety Concerns: Hesitation or sudden jolts during gear shifts can affect control and increase risk, especially at intersections or on highways.

When Should You Visit a Transmission Specialist?

If you notice any of these red flags, it’s time for a check-up:

• Jerky or delayed gear changes
• High RPMs without gear engagement
• Trouble shifting into drive or reverse
• Dashboard warning lights
• Grinding or whining noises during shifting

AAMCO’s Transmission Multi-Point Inspection includes:

• Transmission fluid check
• Visual inspection of the transmission pan (if accessible)
• Road test under different conditions
• Advanced computer diagnostics

Why Trust AAMCO?

With more than 50 years of expertise, AAMCO has become the go-to name in transmission repair. Our certified technicians offer honest assessments, thorough diagnostics, and clear repair options—often on the same day.
Many locations offer:

• Flexible financing plans
• Same-day diagnostics
• A nationwide warranty for peace of mind

Final Thoughts: Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late

Your transmission is vital to your vehicle’s overall performance. If your car is shifting roughly, it’s not something to dismiss. Addressing the issue early can often mean the difference between a quick fix and a costly rebuild.
Trust your instincts—and trust AAMCO. Schedule a visit to your nearest AAMCO center today and get back to smooth, reliable driving.