Many of today`s vehicles can go 200K miles or more without many issues. Unfortunately, this isn`t the case for all vehicles. Even with regular and proper maintenance, your vehicle`s transmission may begin to show signs of a problem. Knowing the signs of transmission problems will help you know when you should seek service. Keep in mind that you should not wait to get your vehicle inspected and repaired if you notice any of the issues mentioned below.
1. Inability to Switch Gears
Have you noticed your vehicle is struggling to change gears? If so, you are likely dealing with an issue with your transmission.
Sometimes, this problem is caused by low transmission fluid or the wrong type of transmission fluid.
2. Delayed Shifts or Missing Gears
Does your transmission take more time to go into gear? If so, this could be another problem caused by low transmission fluid.
It may also be caused by contamination or a leak due to minimal maintenance or water intrusion during flooding or off-road conditions. Even if this doesn`t sound serious, it can create an overheating situation that will damage the internal parts of your transmission.
There may also be issues with the engine, which causes the computer not to let the transmission shift into another gear.
Acting fast can help keep this situation from getting worse. During your maintenance and repairs, think about asking the mechanic to replace your suspension, too.
3. Clunking Sounds
Has your car started making new sounds you haven`t heard before? If so, this is never a good sign.
If you notice clunking, humming, or buzzing, make sure to have the transmission inspected. If you don`t do this, more damage may occur.
Another clunking sound can occur when your vehicle tries to shift from one gear to the next. Rather than making a smooth shift, the transmission will drop, thud, or clunk into the next gear.
4. Burning Odor
Is there a burning smell coming from your vehicle? If so, you should get to the auto shop immediately. The smell may be caused by the transmission getting too hot.
Another problem is the transmission oil being old and burning.
5. Slips or High Engine Revving
With this condition, the issue may be low transmission fluid. It can also be caused by contamination resulting from water intrusion or minimal maintenance.
Another issue may be internal wear and tear on the parts inside your vehicle`s transmission.
If the engine is revving higher, it is a sign you are dealing with worn clutches or another part in the transmission not working properly.
6. Check Engine Light
Some drivers tend to ignore a check engine light when it turns on. However, there are some situations when you should take this seriously.
For example, if the light has begun to blink or if it is red, it means there is an urgent issue.
There are sensors located all over your vehicle that may trip the warning system. Even in some cases, something seemingly unimportant, like losing a gas cap, can cause this alert to turn on.
If the transmission sensors have set off the check engine light, this is a reason to be worried. The sensors are designed to detect even small tremors and jerks that you may not notice otherwise.
You should not wait if this light comes on. A simple diagnostic scan can provide you with the peace of mind you are looking for.
7. Grinding Gears
This issue will mean something different for automatic and manual vehicles. For example, if you drive a vehicle with a manual transmission, the clutch may need replacing.
As you shift over time, the clutch will experience wear. As time passes, the wear causes the clutch to “slip.” This will be obvious because of a grinding feeling or sound as you shift.
This problem also means that when driving in one gear, the transmission can “slip,” and you will suddenly be in a different one. Usually, there is no warning beside the engine sounding bogged down or whining.
For automatic transmissions, this type of rough shifting can mean many things. Taking your car to a mechanic is a good move. They will first look to ensure the transmission synchronizers have been properly calibrated.
8. Leaking Fluid
When your transmission fluid is leaking, it should be easy to tell. You will notice a red and sweet-smelling fluid under your car where you park.
If you notice this issue, you should let the mechanic know they should check the transmission fluid level for a repair.
9. No Power to the Vehicle
If the vehicle doesn`t have any power or very little power, it means the engine isn`t running properly. It could be caused by transmission issues or brakes that are dragging because of a faulty brake hose or caliper.
The vehicle`s computer may also limit power due to a detected problem to protect the engine.
Getting to Know the Signs of Transmission Problems
As you can see, there are several signs of transmission problems you should watch for. Knowing when there is an issue with your vehicle`s transmission will also help you know when you need to get it to a mechanic.
Don`t wait to seek service when a problem occurs. The sooner repairs are made, the fewer issues will occur.
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