Car · Problems
Car judders when accelerating
Jerks under acceleration come either from uneven combustion (ignition, injection, intake) or a mechanical clutch issue. When it happens tells them apart.
UrgencyModerate
Can I drive?Yes, carefully
Likely causesFailing ignition coil
Likely causes
- Failing ignition coil25%
A misfire on one cylinder that worsens under load or in damp weather is typical of a coil.
- Worn spark plugs20%
- Dual-mass flywheel15%
Rattling at idle that stops when you press the clutch, vibration on start-up and shutdown.
- Clogged EGR valve15%
- Dirty or faulty injector10%
- Dirty mass air flow sensor10%
- Worn slipping clutch5%
Revs climb without the speed following, especially uphill or in 4th and 5th at low revs.
What you can check yourself
- If it only judders pulling away from a stop, suspect the clutch or flywheel.
- If it judders on light throttle in 3rd or 4th, suspect ignition or EGR.
- An engine light, steady or flashing, confirms a misfire.
Fault codes often linked
P0300 Random or multiple cylinder misfireP0301 Cylinder 1 misfire detectedP0302 Cylinder 2 misfire detectedP0303 Cylinder 3 misfire detectedP0304 Cylinder 4 misfire detectedP0351 Ignition coil A primary or secondary circuitP0352 Ignition coil B primary or secondary circuitP0299 Turbocharger underboost
Frequently asked questions
Car judders when accelerating: what causes it?
Likely causes: failing ignition coil (25%), worn spark plugs (20%), dual-mass flywheel (15%).
Can I drive?
Yes, carefully. Urgency: moderate.
Indicative estimate. MecaScan cannot see your vehicle: always have a diagnosis confirmed by a professional, and never work on brakes, steering or airbags without the skills.