If you drive a vehicle long enough, there’s a good chance that you’ll eventually have to deal with transmission issues. While your vehicle’s diagnostic system will likely warn you when a serious problem arises, knowing the sights and sounds that indicate potential trouble may help you proactively fix minor issues before they become a major problem. Here’s what you’ll want to look out for.
Slipping Transmission
A transmission that slips in and out of gear, particularly when you’re driving up and down steep hills, likely needs some TLC. In most cases, a qualified mechanic can do the required maintenance and easily get your vehicle running like new.
Leaking Fluids
Dark spots under your car are often an indication that something is wrong. However, it’s sometimes difficult to pinpoint what kind of fluid is leaking. Try putting a piece of cardboard under your car next time you park it. This will give you can get a better idea of the color and texture of the leaking fluids.
Fluid that’s brown, dark red, or bright red can spell trouble for your transmission. In this case, it’s important to see a mechanic as soon as possible or you could end up with some seriously costly repairs!
Unusual Odors
It’s generally recommended that you replace your transmission fluid every 15,000 to 60,000 miles. If you notice a sweet, burning smell and your vehicle is nearing this milestone, it might be time for this maintenance task.
If your transmission fluid is burning, it could mean that your transmission is burning as well. Ignore this, and you’ll likely find yourself facing a complete transmission rebuild.
Strange Sounds
If you notice a whining, grinding, buzzing, or clunking sound, it’s also a good idea to see a mechanic. Whining can be a sign that your needle pins are wearing out, while grinding is often an indicator of low transmission fluid.
Rough Idling
If your automatic vehicle shakes, shimmies, or vibrates while you’re driving or idling it’s a sign that it needs some maintenance. A manual transmission may also make a grinding sound. This is often caused by a worn clutch or other mechanical issue. A car that makes a lot of noise while it’s in neutral is also likely to have transmission problems.
Performance Issues
Vehicle performance issues are also early warning signs of a transmission problem. The most common include rough or delayed shifting and/or unresponsive acceleration. This could be due to something as simple as a worn-out clutch or a more serious issue.
Warning Lights
If your transmission warning or check engine lights come on, never ignore them. This means your vehicle is trying to tell you something is wrong, and it’s your responsibility to follow up.
The transmission temperature warning light indicates that your transmission fluid is heating up and your transmission is operating at a higher-than-ideal temperature. When this light comes on, you need to check the transmission fluid level and your engine coolant level as soon as possible.
Take Your Car To The Transmission Experts – The HAUS
If you’ve noticed any of the above transmission warning signs, it’s a good idea to have your car looked at by a qualified mechanic sooner than later. Early intervention can sometimes mean the difference between a minor repair and a costly transmission replacement.
Stop by The Haus, and let us take a look. We’ll let you know exactly what needs to happen so you can quickly get your vehicle back on the road and functioning like new.