How to Know When Your Car Needs Transmission Repair

Do you hear your car making strange noises? Or is your car hard to drive? Maybe it doesn’t even start right up. Even though you might be tempted to ignore these signs, a poorly maintained car can get much more expensive to fix later on, especially if it’s a problem with your car’s transmission. If you recognize the warning signs of transmission problems early, you can avoid serious headaches and repair bills.

Recognizing these cues early in their development will help you avoid more extensive maintenance or possibly even a new car sooner than you would like.

6 Signs Your Car May Require Transmission Repair

1. Delayed or Slipping Gears

One of the most common, and frustrating, problems with transmissions is when your car’s gears shift more slowly than normal or tend to slip out of gear. You might notice a delay when changing gears, or you might feel a lurch as the gear shifts into gear. This can indicate low transmission fluid or worn internal parts. If this happens to you while driving, you’ll want to take your car to a mechanic as soon as you can; otherwise, more damage could occur, and you might end up having to call a tow truck to pick up your disabled vehicle and take you somewhere safe.

2. Strange Noises When Shifting Gears

Another sign that a transmission might be on the fritz is the presence of strange noises when shifting gears, such as grinding, whining, or buzzing sounds. This can be caused by worn gears, insufficient fluid levels, or other internal problems. If you hear a funny noise when you shift gears, a mechanic can tell you where the noise is coming from and whether you need to get it taken care of quickly.

3. Leaking Transmission Fluid

If your car’s transmission isn’t working, transmission fluid will begin to leak from your vehicle. If you see any red or brown puddles of transmission fluid developing beneath your vehicle, this is yet another sign that you need a mechanic. A leaking transmission system can emit a distinctive burning odor from the engine area. Because transmission fluid is under high pressure in the transmission and leaks have a way of collecting heat, it can lead to overheating and other types of damage within the transmission. If your car is leaking transmission fluid, have it looked at by a mechanic right away and check the transmission fluid levels often.

4. Burning Smell from the Engine

As mentioned earlier, a burning smell coming from your engine is a symptom of a transmission problem. It happens when your engine overheats because the level of fluid is below the required amount or the internal components are worn out. In case you smell a different burning odor when you drive, stop and get your car checked right away. The more you leave it unattended, the more damage it will cause to your transmission and other parts of your car.

5. Warning Lights on Your Dashboard

You know how modern cars have dashboard warning lights? Suppose you see one of these lights warning you that there is a problem with your vehicle specifically relating to the transmission system (e.g., ‘Check Transmission’ or ‘Service Transmission’). If this happens, don't overlook the warning signal. Warning lights with information for the driver are attached to sensors in the transmission telling you that you have a low fluid level, an overheated transmission, or possible internal damage. A mechanic should inspect your car and determine what the warning light is indicating and then take the proper steps to fix the issue.

6. Unusual Vibrations or Shaking While Driving

A transmission that is working properly should shift quietly and smoothly with no feeling of struggling or slipping. A vibration or jerking when you are driving could indicate a problem with the transmission. That could be the result of broken or worn internal parts that are preventing the transmission from working properly. If you experience these symptoms, it is a good idea to take your car to a mechanic so that these issues won’t get worse and potentially put you or your passengers at risk.

Tips for Better Maintaining Your Transmission

Although it is important to know the signs of transmission problems, basic maintenance measures can also help to lengthen your car’s transmission life and prevent severe problems in the future. Here are some tips for prolonging your transmission life:

• Check your transmission fluid level regularly and top up if necessary.
• Follow the recommended service schedule outlined in your car’s manual.
• Avoid overloading or towing heavy loads, as this can put strain on the transmission.
• Have a mechanic inspect your transmission periodically for any potential problems.

It is critical to keep your transmission in good condition and prevent costly repairs by noticing when your transmission is not performing as it should and getting those issues fixed in a timely manner. If any of the warning signs above pop up, schedule an appointment with your mechanic to have it looked at and repaired. Overall, keeping a watchful eye on your transmission will mean less time spent waiting for repairs and fewer extra bucks spent out of pocket. Keep an eye out for when these signs show up and don’t hesitate to get help when you need it.

Allow Us to Assist You with Your Transmission Needs

Without a properly functioning transmission, your car won’t shift gears or power the wheels, potentially resulting in costly repairs or even stranding you on the side of the road. Acquainting yourself with these top warning signs can help you catch transmission issues early, preventing any further damage. Maintaining your transmission regularly and monitoring any lingering problems will ensure your car continues to run smoothly and safely on the road.

But don't worry, if you keep an eye on and take care of your car's transmission, you'll have a smooth ride! If any help is required, feel free to reach out to SLC Fleet Pro Mobile Mechanic.