GWM Haval Jolion Jerky or Hesitant Transmission (Australia)

The GWM Haval Jolion is one of the best-selling small SUVs in Australia. The petrol Jolion uses a 1.5-litre turbo engine with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic, while the Jolion Hybrid uses a different hybrid transmission. A common complaint from petrol owners is hesitation or jerkiness at low speed: a pause when you press the accelerator, a lurch as it takes off, or rough changes in stop-start traffic.

If you'd like a ranked list of likely causes for your Jolion and symptoms, the DIY Mechanic app can work through it with you. The basics below will help you tell normal behaviour from a real fault.

Why is my Jolion jerky at low speed?

A dual-clutch transmission is like two manual gearboxes run by a computer. It's efficient and changes gear quickly once moving, but at very low speeds it has to slip a clutch to move off smoothly, much like a driver feathering a manual clutch. Combined with a small turbo engine and electronic throttle, that can make take-offs feel hesitant, then sudden, especially in traffic, on hills and when reversing into a driveway.

• Take-off hesitation: a short delay before the car moves, followed by a surge, is a common trait of dual-clutch automatics.
• Low-speed jerks: creeping in traffic makes the clutches engage and disengage repeatedly, which can feel lumpy.
• Software calibration: how smoothly a dual-clutch behaves depends heavily on its software. Manufacturers sometimes release updates that change this.
• Clutch adaptation: the transmission learns the clutch engagement points over time. After a battery disconnect or repair, it may need to relearn them.
• Overheating clutches: lots of slow creeping, hill starts or towing can heat the clutches. A warning message, burning smell or sudden harshness are signs to take seriously.
• A genuine fault: clunking, slipping, warning lights or a car that won't select a gear are not normal and need checking.

What's normal and what's not?

Are there any driving tips that help?

• Use smooth, deliberate throttle when pulling away rather than tiny, hesitant presses.
• In crawling traffic, leave a little more space so you're not constantly creeping forward.
• On a steep driveway or hill start, use the brake hold or hill-start feature if your car has it, and avoid holding the car on the accelerator.
• Don't hold the car stationary on a hill with the accelerator. That slips the clutch and heats it up.
• If you tow, stay well within the rated limits. Heavy loads are hard on any dual-clutch.

Should I take it back to the dealer?

Yes, if the hesitation bothers you, and definitely if it's getting worse, comes with a warning message or smell, or the car clunks or slips. Ask the dealer to scan the transmission and check whether any software updates or service bulletins apply to your car. Write down exactly when it happens, such as cold or warm, uphill or flat, and the speed, because intermittent problems are much easier to diagnose with good notes. If you're not satisfied with the outcome, you can escalate to GWM customer service, and your rights under Australian Consumer Law still apply.

Is this the same problem other dual-clutch cars have?

Many dual-clutch cars share similar low-speed traits, and the advice is much the same. If you've driven another small SUV with a dual-clutch, you may recognise it. Our Hyundai and Kia dual-clutch guide covers the same type of transmission in more detail.

To narrow down the most likely cause for your Jolion before you speak to the dealer, start a free diagnosis preview below.