You can typically feel a slipping transmission in one of a couple of ways. First, it may feel like the car is jerking or surging. As the transmission slips, it temporarily loses the ability to transfer power to your wheels. So, as you try to accelerate, the wheels are getting little bursts of power and you will feel the jerking effect.
How do you check your transmission?
Pull out the dipstick, wipe it clean, replace it slowly, and then pull it back out. Check the fluid level—how high the fluid comes up on the dipstick—against the "full" and "low" or "fill" marks on the dipstick. The color of transmission fluid can tell you a lot about the health of your car's transmission.
Will adding transmission fluid stop slipping?
For low fluid levels, you'll need to add more fluid to repair the problem. For burnt or damaged fluid, you'll need to drain the exhausted fluid and replace it with new fluid. For a leak, however, at least part of your transmission will need to be resealed to prevent further slipping and transmission problems.
What causes jerking during acceleration?
An acceleration problem is usually the result of insufficient fuel, air, or spark during the combustion process. A clogged catalytic converter is another reason why a car jerks while accelerating, as a blockage can disrupt the exhaust system's airflow.