5 Signs Your Vehicle Transmission Needs Immediate Repair
Your vehicle’s transmission is important for smooth gear shifts and better performance. If any problem occurs, it is important to take care of it immediately. Otherwise, it may turn into problems that can lead to costly repair or, worse – a complete breakdown.
Ensuring your vehicle transmission is working fine is crucial for the safety and longevity of your car. Unfortunately, several drivers and vehicle owners are unaware of the warning signs that their transmission gives out in case they need immediate attention.
So, in this blog, we have discussed 5 major signs that tell you when to repair a transmission!
5 Warning Signs To Look For!
It is crucial to be mindful of the signs of failing transmission. This guarantees that your car stays in optimal condition. Here, we have mentioned such warning signs so that you don’t have to worry about the car system failing here and there –
Slipping Gears – If you notice or experience that your car is changing gears on its own or is struggling to stay in gear – it’s the transmission that may be slipping. This usually happens when the transmission cannot maintain the right amount of pressure required to keep the gears engaged.
The most common reasons for such issues are –
- Worn-out clutch plates
- Damaged transmission bands
- Low or degraded transmission fluid
Slippery gears make driving quite dangerous. If they are left unaddressed, they can lead to rapid wear and tear of the transmission’s internal components. Thus causing complete damage.
Strange Noises – The transmission is quiet and works smoothly. However, if you start to listen to squeaking, whining, grinding, or clunking noises – now it’s time to get it checked and repaired. Let’s break down what each noise may mean –
- Squeaking sounds may indicate friction in the internal components.
- A whining sound may suggest low transmission fluid or a clogged filter.
- Grinding sounds may indicate worn-out gear synchronizers in case of manual transmission.
- Clunking sounds may point out damaged transmission mounts or internal component failure.
If you have an automatic transmission, then there might be a buzzing or humming sound – which could be caused due to torque failure. Since it can sometimes be difficult to figure out what’s wrong, it is better to call a professional transmission repair service provider!
Leaking Fluid– Fluid in the transmission keeps it cool and lubricated and helps it function properly. If you see reddish-brownish fluid under the car – well, it’s a clear sign of a leak, which needs immediate attention. Leakage can lead to low levels of fluid, which results in poor performance and potential transmission failures.
The most common causes of leaking transmission fluid are –
- Worn-out seals
- Loose drain plugs
- Damaged transmission pan
These issues can lead to transmission overheating as well. Hence, it is advisable to address these issues promptly to ensure the fluid is at an optimal level, which can increase the lifespan of the transmission.
Burning Smell – Burning the smell from your car is never a good thing, as it can be directly related to the transmission. This usually means that the transmission fluid is overheating. Transmission fluid helps regulate the temperature and reduce friction inside the system.
However, due to the increasing age of the component, contamination, etc., it cannot function properly. This leads to excessive heat – which causes the internal component of the transmission to wear down faster. Here are a few reasons why it may occur –
- Leaks
- Using the wrong type of fluid
- Excessive straining of the transmission
Overheating damages the system faster than anything else. So, if you notice the smell of burns – get your vehicle checked immediately.
Dashboard Warning Lights – Modern vehicles have advanced onboard diagnostic systems that monitor various components, including the transmission. If you see any warning signs such as – “Transmission Overheat,” “Check Engine Light,” or anything that is related to the transmission – it’s a clear sign that it needs to be repaired.
The problem could be anything – from overheating fluid and slipping gears to failing sensors or solenoids. Sometimes, the problem is as minor as low fluid. However, it could also indicate major issues such as – internal component damage. Getting the transmission checked can help identify any potential issue—a professional offers transmission repair immediate solutions.
Tips To Maintain Vehicle Transmission
The job of the transmission is to transfer power from the engine to the wheels, which makes the operation smooth and efficient. Hence, it is important to maintain it regularly, which helps prevent damage to the internal parts and also extend its life.
If not maintained properly, transmission failure can lead to expensive repairs and replacements, which might cost thousands of dollars. So, why spend so much when you can ensure its integrity with just a few regular upkeep once in a while? Here’s how to do it –
- Ensure the fluid level is optimal.
- Avoid sudden breaks and acceleration.
- Always use the correct fluid for better performance.
- Check if the fluid has a dark or burnt color. If so, it needs changing.
- Avoid putting extra stress on the transmission, which may cause it to overheat.
- Ensure the radiator is in good condition. It prevents the transmission from overheating.
- Change transmission fluid whenever necessary. Check the manufacturer’s guidelines or get in touch with a professional.
Failing transmission can cause several issues, which puts your safety at risk. Hence, proper maintenance ensures that the transmission stays lubricated, operates at the right temperature, and performs efficiently. Keeping transmissions in good condition keeps your vehicle running without investing in additional repair and replacement costs.
Takeaway
Transmission issues may start small, such as minor slips and fluid leaks here and there, but they can quickly turn into a nightmare if not addressed promptly. Understanding and recognizing the signs of problems can save you from expensive repairs and, most importantly – unfortunate incidents.
Also, it is advisable to take preventive measures to maintain the health of the transmission. However, problems may arise despite the implementation of the system. So, if you experience any of the signs mentioned above, it is better not to wait for long.
Get your vehicle transmission checked by a professional before the problem worsens.
Need Help With Emergency Vehicle Transmission Repair? Get In Touch With California Transmission!
Beware of the failing signs of the transmission – as ignorance can be costly! California Transmission is here to help you with all the repair and maintenance work related to your transmission. We are considered the best in town because of our expertise and years of experience in the field. It’s easy to reach out to us.
If you see any warning signs, reach out to us. Our automatic transmission repair and service includes thorough inspection and repair of any damaged or malfunctioning parts quickly and efficiently.
Book an appointment at California Transmission for car transmission repair services!
