A lot can go wrong with vehicles. We may drive our car for years without a problem, but then one day it starts making a strange noise or behaving oddly. One of the most important components of a car is the transmission. This is the part that allows power to be transmitted from the engine to the drive mechanism. So, if your car is acting up, how do you know if your transmission could be the problem? Here are eight clues:
- You can’t put your car in gear.
If you are unable to put your car in gear or there is a hesitation, this is probably the biggest sign your transmission is not operating as it should.
- You hear noises when the car is in neutral.
While this could be an indication that you just need to put in new transmission fluid, this may mean something else, such as worn bearings or gear teeth. These would have to be replaced.
- The gears are slipping.
If while driving, your car slips into another gear by itself, this is a huge sign of transmission trouble. This can create a very dangerous situation and a transmission repair is vital to keep you safe.
- Fluid is leaking.
If you see some red-colored fluid on your driveway, it means your transmission is leaking. In order to do its job properly, a transmission has to have the adequate amount of fluid. Even a little leak can lead to a big problem.
- There is grinding or shaking.
During normal conditions, when you shift into other gears, you shouldn’t really hear or feel much of anything. However, if the transmission is not working well, shifting will result in a grinding sound or it will be a struggle.
- There is a whining or buzzing sound.
If every time you go out for a drive you hear a whining, buzzing, or even humming, chances are it is related to your transmission.
- You smell something burning.
If you start your car and before long you smell something burning, that could very well be the fluid in your overheated transmission. Part of transmission fluid’s job is to keep things cool, and if it is not doing that, you know something is wrong.
- The check engine light comes on.
If your check engine light comes on, it could mean a lot of different things, but it also may be a good indicator that something is up with your transmission. In newer cars, sensors pick up things that you probably are not aware of, including vibrations and early problems.
If you have noticed any of these symptoms with your car, is it very important that you get a transmission repair as soon as you can. You should not wait until it is too late and you end up stranded. To make sure your car is in good hands, just bring it in to Xpress Lube. Our expert technicians will diagnose the problem and make sure the repairs are taken care of in a timely manner.
