Reverse Shudder

[MrHappy]

New issue starting to creep up and I searched but didn't find anything specific to this:

On the first startup of the day (usually in the morning, but not always, and cold temps aren't an issue) when I first put the car in reverse to back out of the garage, the whole car shakes and sputters like it's going to stall out, then eventually revs back to normal and I can go in reverse and be on my way. It never used to do this and only does it on the first start of the day after it's sat overnight. I've tried different gas stations to make sure it's not a fuel issue but no luck. Any ideas?

Also, I seem to be getting an annoying vibration in the steering wheel and accelerator at random times (on the expressway is most noticeable). Thinking it might be out of balance Contis (about 6k miles on the non-self sealers) or an alignment issue? Will take advice on this too!

[Dood]

Hi MrHappy, I too, have the shudder in reverese first thing in the morning. It's not as bad as you've described but disconcerting none the less.

Originally Posted by MrHappy

New issue starting to creep up and I searched but didn't find anything specific to this:

On the first startup of the day (usually in the morning, but not always, and cold temps aren't an issue) when I first put the car in reverse to back out of the garage, the whole car shakes and sputters like it's going to stall out, then eventually revs back to normal and I can go in reverse and be on my way. It never used to do this and only does it on the first start of the day after it's sat overnight. I've tried different gas stations to make sure it's not a fuel issue but no luck. Any ideas?

Also, I seem to be getting an annoying vibration in the steering wheel and accelerator at random times (on the expressway is most noticeable). Thinking it might be out of balance Contis (about 6k miles on the non-self sealers) or an alignment issue? Will take advice on this too!

[MrHappy]

Anyone else have this? I can't imagine it's either normal or good? On a cold, cold morning I could somewhat see this, but not every day no matter the weather, and especially not almost stalling out.

[Mr.DJ]

My car used to have that particular problem (although not so pronounced) as well, but now it rarely occurs; however, my car has an inherent (possible transmission-related problem), which has haunted my car since 'day one'. Supposedly, after a long discussion between Chrysler's west coast technical rep and the engineers back at DCX, the latest 'TSB' should've have 'fixed' the problem....but, only time will tell.

[SK 300C]

I have also noticed a shudder when selecting reverse after starting the car for the first time each day. Based on experience with older rear wheel drive cars I tried selecting neutral for 10 seconds or so before reverse and the shudder is gone. Perhaps the torque converter drains over night and needs time to fill, or it takes a few seconds for fluid to be pumped to all areas of the transmission (ie clutch pistons etc.). On some previous Chrysler automatics the recommendation was to warm up the car in neutral rather than park because fluid circulates to more areas of the transmission. The same may be true for the 300C.

[II kings 9:20]

No problems here.

[LWOOD]

There is a new thread entitled NewTSB:Tranfer Case Shudder. It is in problems and dealer service...I'm on my way out so can't provide the link but you need to look at that thread and have your car serviced accordingly.

[MrHappy]

I have the RWD though, not AWD like in the TSB. *Sigh* I just want her to run right and not squeek like someone is shaking a box full of mice!

[MDTII]

Originally Posted by MrHappy

I have the RWD though, not AWD like in the TSB. *Sigh* I just want her to run right and not squeek like someone is shaking a box full of mice!

The idle drop issue sounds calibration-related. Take it to the dealer and ask if you have the latest engine calibration. If not, they should update it for free.

Also, is your A/C on when the idle drop is noted? A/C compressor engagement can cause brief fluctuations in engine speed, especially after soak periods (when in open loop).

The vibration issue (especially if it in noted in a specific speed range) sounds like an out of balance tire.

What engine package do you have? 3.5L?

[MrHappy]

No A/C, it's right when I first start the car for the day and put it into reverse (no a/c, no heat, no fans, heck, usually even no radio). And yeah, I am going to have them check the tire balance... I just hate going in with 10 things on a list every time.