Why does your automatic car jerk when accelerating and coming to a stop the dash display shows that it is not in any gear?

1. Transmission problems:

   • Worn or damaged transmission components, such as the torque converter, transmission fluid, or solenoids, can cause jerking during acceleration and gear display problems.
   • A low transmission fluid level or dirty/contaminated fluid can also lead to jerking and transmission issues.

2. Faulty sensors:

   • Malfunctioning sensors, such as the speed sensor or transmission position sensor, can provide incorrect information to the vehicle's computer, causing jerking and gear display inaccuracies.

3. Computer software (TCM/PCM):

   • Errors or glitches in the software controlling the transmission (Transmission Control Module or Powertrain Control Module) can cause shifting problems and inaccurate gear displays.

   • Mechanical linkage issues:

     • In some older automatic cars, a mechanical linkage connects the gear selector to the transmission.
     • If this linkage becomes worn, loose, or misaligned, it can cause jerking and prevent the gear display from accurately indicating the selected gear.

Note: It is important to have the vehicle diagnosed by a qualified mechanic to identify the exact cause of the issue. Jerking and gear display problems can sometimes indicate more serious underlying issues that require prompt attention to avoid further damage or safety risks.