Clunk When Shifting Into Drive Or Reverse
A clunk or jolt when selecting drive or reverse in an automatic usually comes from worn engine or gearbox mounts, play in the driveline or a gearbox that engages too harshly.
Normal risk
Have it checked soon, especially if the clunk is getting stronger.
Short answer · Why does my car clunk when I put it in drive?
When the gearbox engages, the engine twists on its mounts. Worn mounts let it move further and hit its stops. Play in driveshaft joints, the propshaft or the differential adds a clunk. A gearbox with low fluid or high idle can engage too firmly. Check the idle speed and gearbox fluid as well as the mounts.
Safe checks you can do
- Hold the brake firmly when selectingNotice if the engine rocks visibly when shifting.
- Check the idle speedHigh idle makes engagement harsher.
- Note any delay before the clunkDelayed, then harsh engagement points to the gearbox.
Questions that narrow it down
- Is the engine light or gearbox light on?Read the codes.
- Only when cold?Cold fluid and mounts are stiffer.
- Do you feel it in reverse too?Mounts are likely.
Possible causes
Listed without ranking. Use the questions above to see which ones fit your car.
- Worn engine or gearbox mountEngine rocks and hits stops.
- Play in the drivelineJoints, propshaft or differential.
- High idle speedEngagement is harsher.
- Low or old gearbox fluidPoor pressure control.
- Gearbox faultAdaptive values or valve body.
Questions about Clunk When Shifting Into Drive Or Reverse
Can new mounts fix it?
If the mounts are worn, yes. A workshop can check them by watching the engine move.
Is a small clunk normal?
A slight engagement is normal; a sharp clunk or jolt is not.