Automatic Gearbox · Symptom guide

Automatic gearbox: judder when selecting D or R – causes and solutions

In short: a harsh jolt or a delay when selecting D or R is most often caused by insufficient fluid level or quality, the hydraulic block (mechatronic unit), or broken engine mounts that allow the engine to rock. Internal gearbox wear should only be considered once these simpler causes have been ruled out.

Main causeFluid, hydraulic block or mounts

UrgencyKeep an eye on it

Can you drive?Yes

SolutionFluid and mounts first

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Normal or abnormal?

A slight jolt when moving from P to D or R with the engine at idle is perfectly normal on many automatics. What should concern you: a sharp thud, a clunk, or a delay of one or two seconds before the car engages.

Likely causes

Oil level or quality. A low level or degraded oil slows the build-up of pressure, resulting in a delay followed by a jolt.
Hydraulic block or mechatronic unit. A sticking solenoid or valve delivers inconsistent engagement.
Broken engine or gearbox mounts. In this case the jolt does not come from the gearbox itself but from the engine rocking – you feel it throughout the vehicle, sometimes accompanied by a dull "clunk".
Internal wear of the clutch packs for the gear concerned.

The test: with the bonnet open and the brake held down, have someone switch between D and R. If the engine rocks noticeably, the mounts are worn – a straightforward repair, and the gearbox is not at fault.

Can you keep driving?

Yes, but have the oil level checked promptly. A jolt that worsens, becomes metallic, or is accompanied by an ever-increasing delay is a sign of more serious trouble ahead.

Repair or replace?

Mounts, oil and the hydraulic block can all be addressed without changing the gearbox, and these are the most common causes. If internal wear is confirmed, a reconditioned automatic gearbox on an exchange basis, tested and warranted for up to 24 months, is generally more cost-effective than a full rebuild.

The EDEN BOITES solution

Need to replace the part?

Reconditioned part on an exchange basis, bench-tested, with up to 24 months’ warranty, payable in 10 instalments. Your vehicle details are all we need to find the right reference.

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Frequently asked questions

Not necessarily: a worn engine mount often shows up most in reverse, when the engine rocks the other way. Have the mounts checked before blaming the gearbox.

When cold, the fluid is more viscous and pressure builds differently. A jolt that disappears once the gearbox is up to temperature points towards the fluid or the hydraulic block rather than internal damage.

Other symptoms

Automatic gearbox in limp-home mode Automatic gearbox vibrations between 50 and 90 km/h All symptoms: full diagnosis

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Automatic gearbox: judder when selecting D or R – causes and solutions

Normal or abnormal?

Likely causes

Can you keep driving?

Repair or replace?

Need to replace the part?

Frequently asked questions

Other symptoms

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