Why Does My Semi Truck Jerk When I Accelerate?

When your semi truck jerks when you accelerate, it can be a troubling experience. There are several possible causes of this issue and they range from minor to severe. It is important to determine the cause of the jerking so that it can be corrected and you can continue to drive safely.

Fuel – If your semi truck is low on fuel, it can cause the engine to jerk when accelerating. The jerking occurs as a result of the fuel pump not receiving enough fuel for the engine to maintain a consistent rate of acceleration. If you believe this is the cause, simply refuel your truck and see if that resolves the issue.

Tire Pressure – Incorrect tire pressure can also cause your semi truck to jerk when accelerating. If the tires are underinflated, they will not grip the road as securely as they should which will result in an inconsistent acceleration rate. Check all of your tires and ensure that they are at their recommended inflation levels for optimal performance and safety.

Clogged Fuel Filter – A clogged fuel filter could also be causing your semi truck to jerk while accelerating. The fuel filter prevents dirt and debris from entering the engine which could otherwise cause damage or decreased performance. It’s recommended that you replace your fuel filter once every 50,000 miles or as recommended by your manufacturer for optimal performance and longevity of vehicle components.

Incorrect Shift Points – Incorrect shift points are another possible culprit for a jerking semi truck when accelerating. Shift points occur when the transmission shifts into different gears; if these points are off, it could cause an inconsistent acceleration rate which would result in jerking while accelerating. Have an experienced mechanic check and adjust these shift points if needed in order to prevent any further issues with your semi truck’s performance.

Conclusion
It is important that any time you experience jerking with your semi truck while accelerating, you take steps to identify and correct the issue immediately in order to ensure safe operation of your vehicle. Possible causes include low fuel levels, incorrect tire pressure, clogged fuel filters, or incorrect shift points; all of which should be inspected by an experienced mechanic in order to prevent further damage or decreased performance from occurring with your vehicle in the future.

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Susan Delgado