Hi guys. I drive a 2002 Ford Ranger and it has started having a jerking problem these past few weeks. So far it only happens when I am speeding up or cruising. I took a long drive across Texas yesterday and really noticed it jolting during the trip. During the trip, whenever the A/C was on, the truck would jerk a lot more frequently. It would also jerk right when the A/C was turned on and when the compressor engaged. The magnitude of the jolt also seems to increase when I am driving at higher speeds. Also, my check engine light has not turned on.

I'm hoping my transmission isn't dying. I have done some research on this site and it sounds like the issue may either be the MAF sensor or my spark plugs, but I am hoping for a second opinion. Does anyone know what the issue might be? My ranger has a 4.0L V6 with around 40k miles on both the motor and the 5-speed automatic transmission. Thanks in advance.

 

possible bad ground.