Posted on 3/28/2025

Do you hear a loud “clunk” or feel a jolt when you shift your vehicle into reverse? It might happen once in a while or every single time—but either way, it’s unsettling. A car shouldn't make a loud noise or jerk every time you go into reverse. These symptoms usually point to a problem somewhere in the drivetrain, and while it might not mean your transmission is on its last leg, it’s definitely not something to ignore. That “clunk” is your vehicle’s way of telling you something isn’t engaging properly. If left unchecked, a minor issue can lead to wear and tear on expensive components like the transmission or driveshaft. What’s Happening When You Shift Into Reverse When you move the gear selector into reverse, your transmission activates a specific gearset designed to rotate the wheels backward. At the same time, the engine’s torque is redirected, and power flows through a series of joints and mount ... read more