Having transmission problems with your vehicle can be stressful. It is a major component of your car and when it isn’t functioning correctly, it not only makes your drives more uncomfortable, but it can be dangerous too. That’s why it is important to be aware of when your transmission needs maintenance. To help you stay one step ahead of any potential problems, here are the top 5 signs of transmission problems when your car needs maintenance.
1. Strange Noises
One of the tell-tale signs that your car needs transmission maintenance is unusual noises. Strange whining, grinding and buzzing noises are among the most common sounds you might hear if your car is having transmission problems. Other potential signs include a loud thumping noise when you accelerate or decelerate, a rhythmic clicking noise, or a general loud rumbling sound from underneath the engine.
If you hear any unusual noises while driving, it’s best to have your vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic to determine whether it needs to have any transmission maintenance done. It is much more cost-effective to catch issues early, before they become more serious (and more expensive) problems.
2. Leaking Fluid
One of the easiest ways to tell if you have transmission issues is to check the fluid level. If it is low, it may indicate that you have a fluid leak, which could be a sign of a problem in you transmission. It is important to note that transmission fluid should never be confused with oil or engine coolant, as these are two entirely different things. If you suspect that you have a transmission fluid leak, you should take your car to a mechanic to have it inspected.
3. Slipping Gears
Another potential sign of transmission problems is when your car doesn’t make a smooth transition when shifting gears. This is especially true if you feel the car jerking or shuddering when you accelerate. It may also result in a delay in acceleration or an inability to shift from one gear to the next. These are all signs that your car needs transmission maintenance.
4. Burning Smell
Whenever you drive, your car should always smell pleasant. So it’s important to pay attention to any strange odors that linger in your vehicle, as they could be an indicator that your car needs maintenance. If you notice a burning smell coming from under the hood – it’s important to take action right away. Usually, a burning smell is caused by transmission fluid that is burning off due to an overheating problem. This could be a sign that there’s a serious issue with your transmission and you should take your car for an immediate inspection.
5. Dashboard Light
If you’re driving your car and see a warning light illuminated on your dashboard, it usually means there’s a problem. One of the most common dashboard warning lights is related to transmission problems. This is usually a red, yellow, or orange warning light that looks like a gear or transmission icon. When the light turns on, it indicates that something is wrong with the transmission. You should take your car for maintenance immediately, as ignoring this warning could lead to additional damage to your vehicle’s transmission.
We can all agree that transmission problems are no fun. Fortunately, they’re something that’s relatively easy to diagnose. If you have noticed any of the signs of transmission problems listed above, it’s important to act quickly. Taking your car to a qualified technician for maintenance can help to prevent further damage and ensure that your vehicle’s transmission remains in good working order for as long as possible.