4 Transmission Warning Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore
Your transmission system is the part of your engine that keeps you moving so it’s important to make sure it’s working properly! To keep you on the road for longer safer, we’ve labeled the 5 most common transmission signs that will help you prevent costly transmission repairs down the road.
Is Your Transmission Slipping?
Your transmission should never suddenly and unexpectedly change gears. When your transmission is slipping, your car may feel like it’s struggling to accelerate or maintain it’s speed. This can sometimes be accompanied with a strange noise from the engine. This is a sign that your transmission system could need some much needed repairs or even a flush.
Is There Grinding, Clunking, or Shimmying?
You should really be concerned if any piece of your engine is making strange sounds but this is especially true with your transmission system. Whether you have an automatic or a manual transmission, you should be hyper aware of what your transmission sounds like. If you have a manual, the most common warning sound is going to be a sudden grinding noise when you switch gears. For automatic transmissions, you will more likely hear your car “shimmy” into each gear or hear a whining or buzzing sound. Any unusual sounds should be a clear warning sign to take your car in to your mechanic and have it checked out!
Are You Leaking?
Fluid leaks within your transmission system are a serious issue. Your transmission requires an appropriate amount of fluid to keep the system lubricated and cooled properly. Running on low fluids can quickly destroy your transmission costing you more in the long run. Transmission fluid is typically bright red but can be darker red or brown which is a sign of other issues.
You should check your transmission fluid levels periodically just like you check your oil. Checking your transmission can help expand the lifespan of your transmission by allowing you to catch bigger problems at their earliest symptom. When you check your transmission fluid, it should be pinkish and almost clear. If it’s a brownish color and has a burnt smell, then the fluid can no longer dissipate the heat adequately and needs to be changed.
Watch for the Warning Lights
One of the benefits of our developing automobile technology are the numerous warning lights available to warn you of a problem. Your transmission has a transmission temperature dashboard warning sign that will come on when your transmission fluid is hotter than it should be. If this light comes on, you should immediately stop your car and check your transmission fluid and coolant level. You should top either fluid off as necessary and get your vehicle to your local auto repair shop so that they can investigate further and prevent any unnecessary damage.
Having your transmission rebuilt or even replaced can be an expensive repair. This means it’s even more important to pay close attention to your transmission and prevent any major repairs by keeping it properly maintained and serviced. If your transmission has any of the warning signs above, be sure to drop by your local auto repair shop, or Auto Pros to have one of our ASE certified technicians look over your transmission. Feel free to schedule a service online or call us today!