Blog Post

4 Signs Your Car Needs Transmission Repair

Darin Rinn • May 18, 2024

The last thing a vehicle owner wants to deal with is a failed transmission. Depending on the type, the average transmission fails between 100,000 to 200,000 miles.

Issues in a vehicle can be a major headache for any driver. Not only are they costly to repair, but they can also leave you stranded on the side of the road left unresolved. That's why it's crucial to be aware of the key signs that your car may require transmission repair. By catching these issues early, you avoid more serious problems down the line and potentially save yourself a lot of time and money.

Here are four signs that your car may need transmission repair:

1. Rough Shifting:

One of the most common signs of transmission problems is rough or jerky shifting. If you notice that your car is hesitating struggling to shift gears, it could be a sign that there is an issue with your transmission. For example, you may feel a jolt when shifting from park to drive, or your car may hesitate before accelerating.

Potential causes of rough shifting include low transmission fluid, worn clutch plates, or a faulty solenoid. If you experience rough shifting in your vehicle, it's important to have it checked out by a professional as soon as possible. Ignoring this issue can lead to further damage to your transmission and potentially leave you stranded on the side of the road.

2. Strange Noises:

Another key sign that your car may need transmission repair is the presence of strange noises while driving. This could include grinding, whining, or clunking sounds coming from your transmission. These noises are often a sign that there is a problem with the internal components of your transmission, such as worn gears or bearings.

If you notice any strange noises coming from your transmission, it's important to have it inspected by a mechanic right away. Ignoring these noises can lead to more serious damage to your transmission, resulting in more expensive repairs down the line.

3. Leaking Fluid:

Transmission fluid is crucial for the smooth operation of your transmission. If you notice a red or brown fluid leaking from your vehicle, it could be a sign that there is a leak in your transmission system. Transmission fluid is essential for lubricating the moving parts of your transmission and preventing overheating.

Common causes of transmission fluid leaks include worn seals, gaskets, or damaged transmission lines. If you notice any fluid leaking from your vehicle, it's important to have it checked out by a professional to identify the source of the leak and prevent further damage to your transmission.

4. Burning Smell:

If you notice a burning smell coming from your vehicle, it could be a sign that your transmission is overheating. Overheating can cause damage to the internal components of your transmission and lead to more serious issues if left unresolved. The burning smell may be accompanied by a noticeable increase in the temperature gauge on your dashboard.

If you detect a burning smell coming from your vehicle, it's important to pull over and allow your transmission to cool down before continuing to drive. Ignoring this issue can lead to more severe damage to your transmission and potentially leave you stranded on the side of the road.

In conclusion, being aware of the key signs that your car may require transmission repair can help you avoid more serious issues and costly repairs down the line. If you notice any of these signs in your vehicle, it's important to take proactive steps to address them promptly. Regular maintenance, such as checking your transmission fluid and having it changed at the recommended intervals, can help prevent transmission issues from arising in the first place. By staying on top of maintenance and addressing any signs of trouble early, you can keep your vehicle running smoothly and avoid costly transmission repairs in the future.
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