Sometimes, it does not take an expert to diagnose a car problem. Maybe your battery has died, or your car is making an obvious rattling noise. But car problems can also be more challenging to spot if you have little automotive experience. Unfortunately, identifying these early is vital to keeping your car in good shape and giving it a long life.
Your transmission is a vital component of your vehicle, and transmission problems can lead to significant repairs. However, most drivers will not necessarily notice them right away. Here are a few signs of transmission problems and what they might mean.
What Is the Transmission?
Your car’s transmission is one of its most essential components. This complex system helps transfer power from the engine to the wheels and other parts of the vehicle. Because it is so vital, it should be obvious why you should address any signs of transmission problems as soon as they arise.
Difficulty Shifting
Drivers are most likely to notice issues with their transmission while they are shifting gears. Of course, most cars these days are automatic, which might make the signs of transmission problems a little more challenging to spot.
If your car seems to “fight back” while shifting gears, it could be a problem with the transmission. You might also notice the car or gear shift shaking or vibrating.
This usually points to a fluid issue. Like the engine, your transmission needs proper lubrication to work, so low fluid levels can lead to resistance.
A Burning Smell
The smell of burning is pretty much the last thing you want to notice in your vehicle. But these can also be signs of transmission problems.
Specifically, it may be due to dirty transmission lines or low fluid levels. Without proper lubrication, the system is likely to overheat.
Leaking Fluid
It is always helpful when car problems are easy to spot. You will know what you are dealing with right away when it comes to transmission fluid leaks. If there is a leak under your car, it is something to pay attention to. Transmission fluid is easy to identify by its red color.
If you notice fluid leaking, getting your car inspected as soon as possible before it becomes a significant problem is essential.
Weird Noises
You do not have to be a car expert to realize that unusual noises from your vehicle are never good. Signs of transmission problems often include strange sounds like clunking or grinding, especially when your car is in neutral. They might also happen while you’re shifting gears. Sometimes, noises are accompanied by strong vibrations in your whole car.
Slipping Gears
You are driving along and notice some resistance — then you look down and realize you’re in the wrong gear. One time might be a mistake, but if it keeps happening, it could mean there is a transmission issue.
You might notice your car slipping out of gear in a few ways. You might suddenly feel like you’ve lost traction and are sliding. There could also be resistance when you shift, often through the vehicle shaking or roaring. Vehicles with failing transmissions are often slow to accelerate.
Obviously, this is not an ideal way to drive — you need total control of your car on the road!
This might be a sign that there is a major transmission problem, or it could just mean that you need a simple fluid flush. Either way, it’s vital that you get your car inspected as soon as possible.
Make Your Appointment
Transmission problems need to be addressed as soon as possible to avoid further damage to your vehicle. This ensures you and other drivers are safe and that you can prevent a more extensive, more expensive repair. If you think your transmission needs attention, don’t wait. Contact Massey Automotive at +1 770-971-4466 to schedule an appointment at our Marietta, GA, location to get help now.