Does your transmission have issues? When transmission problems are caught early, they may be easier to fix, and less likely to cause an accident or additional damage. Learn to recognize the telltale signs of transmission failure so you can have the problem fixed before your vehicle sustains damage.
- Inability to switch gears: If your vehicle is struggling to change gears, the transmission is probably the problem. It could be as simple as low transmission fluid or the wrong kind of transmission fluid, but don’t hesitate to get a professional to look at it.
- Burning odor: Any burning smell coming from your car warrants a trip to the auto shop. This odor could mean the transmission is overheating, or the fluid is old and burning. Transmission fluid is designed to lubricate the gears and keep them spinning smoothly. In high-mileage vehicles, the fluid may burn inside the transmission.
- Weird noises in neutral: A car in neutral shouldn’t make strange noises. If it does, it may need new transmission fluid or a repair to the transmission.
- Slipping gears: A clutch system separates and engages new gears. If this system is worn down, the transmission can slip as it changes from one gear to the next. This is both alarming and extremely dangerous, and these issues will continue to get worse until the transmission doesn’t engage at all.
- Dragging clutch: This is a clutch that won’t disengage the clutch disk from the flywheel when you press the clutch pedal.
- Transmission fluid leaks: If you see red fluid under your car, or the underside of your vehicle is emitting a strange smell; your transmission needs fluid service.
- Check engine light: If your check engine light comes on, see a professional who will determine the problem. Sometimes, these lights mean that transmission fluid is running low or burned out. If left alone, this can cause the transmission’s temperature in the transmission to rise significantly, which can cause the transmission to seize up or blow.
- Shaking or grinding: Grinding or shaking indicates a transmission problem.
- Humming, whining, or clunking: These all require professional attention. Automatic transmissions tend to whine, while manual transmissions make grinding sounds when they’re in trouble.
- No response when changing gears: Especially if you can’t shift from park to drive, there’s a problem with your transmission.
For a professional diagnosis or a full transmission rebuild, call the experts at All Tune and Lube. For over 20 years, we’ve been working hard to keep your plans from being interrupted by automotive malfunctions. Our ASE Certified Master Technicians have the experience and training needed to handle your repairs and maintenance, whether it’s a problem with your transmission or another part of your car. Call us today at 714-871-4144 or contact us through our website.