6 Common Signs Your Car Needs Transmission Repair

As a car owner, being aware of potential issues with your vehicle is crucial. One key component to monitor is the transmission. A malfunctioning transmission can be costly and may even render your car inoperable. However, many drivers are unaware of the warning signs indicating their transmission requires attention.

In this blog, you’ll discover the most common signs that your vehicle may need a transmission repair.

Leaking Fluid

Leaking transmission fluid is a primary sign of a failing transmission. A vehicle’s transmission system uses balanced fluid pressure and lubrication to function properly. The fluid circulates to cool, clean, and lubricate the internal components, including gears and clutches.

When there’s a leak, the transmission won’t have enough fluid to operate effectively, leading to several issues:

– Slipping gears

– Difficulty shifting

– Complete transmission failure

A fluid leak indicates a problem with one of the transmission’s seals or gaskets. These components prevent fluid from escaping; if they are damaged or worn, leakage can occur.

If you notice any signs, such as puddles of fluid under your car, ensure you have your vehicle inspected by a qualified technician as soon as possible to prevent further damage and potential transmission failure. You can find skilled technicians at Clean Complete Auto Care & Transmissions, Berea’s premier auto transmission repair shop.

Refusal To Switch Gears

If your car struggles to change gears or refuses to do so, it’s likely a sign of a problem with your transmission system. Using low or incorrect types of transmission fluid can cause your vehicle to have difficulty shifting gears.

The Burning Odor

If you notice burning smells coming from your car, you should visit an auto shop immediately. This indicates a problem with your transmission, either due to overheating or because the fluid is old and burnt.

Noises When in Neutral

When your vehicle is in neutral, unusual noises can indicate a problem with your transmission. These sounds may suggest that your car needs new transmission fluid, which an expert mechanic would flush out before adding fresh fluid. Alternatively, it could mean that your car requires a replacement or additional service.

Dragging Clutch

A dragging clutch fails to disconnect the clutch disk from the flywheel when you press the clutch pedal. This causes the gears to clash, and the car may lurch when shifting gears. A dragging clutch typically occurs due to mechanical failure or improper clutch adjustment.

Delayed Engagement

Delayed engagement occurs when a car’s automatic transmission takes longer than usual to shift into gear after the driver moves the gear selector lever. This means there’s a noticeable delay when transitioning from park (P) to drive (D) before the vehicle moves.

This performance lag can be caused by factors such as low fluid levels, damaged clutch bands, worn gears, or solenoid issues. The severity of the problem will influence the symptoms. In some cases, the transmission may take a second or two to engage, while the delay can be longer in others. The driver may notice that the car struggles to engage, moving forward sluggishly.

If you experience any of these symptoms, have your vehicle inspected by experts as soon as possible to identify the underlying issue.

Final Thoughts

These signs indicate that it’s time to have your transmission repaired. You should head to your local repair shop for transmission service, and if the mechanics recommend an overhaul, it’s best to follow their advice. They have the expertise and can provide the best guidance for your situation. When it comes to transmission repair, you can receive top-notch auto maintenance and repair services in Berea at Clean Complete Auto Care & Transmissions!