Vehicle has a hard shutter accelerating around 55 MPH. What is causing this?

1998 BUICK SKYLARK
230,000 MILES
Avatar
SIMON1BJ
  • MEMBER
  • 12 POSTS
While accelerating up to 55 - 60 mph the car shakes erradically. Letting off the accelerator stops the problem but as soon as I accelerate again the issue presents itself again. This is not a constant issue but happens for a few days then goes away then comes back a few days later. At first thought maybe just a wheel balance or allignment issue. Does anyone have any hints tips suggestions? It would be greatly appreciated.
Feb 8, 2012 at 2:55 PM
Advertisement
Avatar
SQM
  • CERTIFIED EXPERT
  • 6,383 POSTS
Hello,

It sounds like an issue with the transmission shuddering. As typically with shuddering happens when the vehicle goes into over drive. Which is around the speed you are having the issue.

A transmission can shudder for simply having low fluid level. It can also happen for having dirty or contaminated fluid.
So check your fluid first and verify the level and quality.
If the fluid is low or dirty the fluid pressure will drop and make the transmission shudder.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/automatic-transmission-problems

Please let me know of any questions.
Thank you.
Sep 7, 2021 at 2:40 PM