Your transmission is one of the most important components of your car, and when it starts failing, you put yourself in danger. It can be difficult to know what’s wrong without having a professional look at it, but some telltale signs indicate transmission repair may be necessary. According to Statista, cars with an automatic transmission will make up 25% of the market by 2025, which may reduce the need for repairs. In the meantime, there are several signs to check for regarding a transmission repair.
1. Fluid Leaks
Transmission fluid leaking under your car is a sure sign that transmission repair is needed. This fluid acts as a lubricant and a coolant to keep transmission components running smoothly. Without transmission fluid, its parts will overheat and suffer serious damage.
2. Burning Smell
Be mindful of a burning smell while driving. Burned transmission fluid smells like burning rubber or cooking oil. When transmission components start overheating, transmission fluid can be burned off, leading to damage.
3. Grinding or Shaking
If you feel a grinding sensation when shifting gears or your car shakes when accelerating, your transmission may be in trouble. It results from poor lubrication on some parts.
4. Slipping Gears
If your transmission is slipping when shifting into gear, this could be caused by a worn-out clutch or low transmission fluid levels. This slippage will cause the transmission to fail eventually and can be dangerous if not addressed.
5. Delayed Engagement
Do you notice it takes longer than usual for your transmission to engage when shifting into gear? This symptom happens thanks to transmission fluid issues or worn-out transmission parts.
6. Erratic Shifting
Watch out for erratic and harsh shifting. This symptom is usually caused by transmission fluid problems, worn transmission parts, or a failing transmission solenoid.
7. Noisy Transmission
Does your transmission make loud noises when shifting or accelerating? If so, transmission repair may be necessary. Common causes of transmission noise include fluid problems, worn transmission parts, and failed transmission components.
8. Check Engine Light
The check engine light can indicate a transmission problem, as well as other issues. If the light comes on, it’s important to have your car inspected right away.
Transmission repair is not something to be taken lightly, so transmission repair will become increasingly important for more and more drivers. Contact D’s Auto & Truck Repair today for auto service.