A car’s transmission is one of its most important parts. It needs proper care and maintenance. As soon as you notice any one of the following symptoms, you need to get your car to the nearest shop for transmission service in Salt Lake City, Nashville or anywhere you are in the country.
These are some common transmission problems you should never ignore:
1. Transmission is slipping.
Normally, when you’re driving, whatever gear you’re in, it should be easy to slide your transmission to neutral. However, if you’re driving an automatic and your transmission keeps slipping — you’re cruising at a certain gear level then it changes for no apparent reason or your engine makes a whining sound — it’s time to take your car to the shop for an inspection.
You’ll know that your transmission is slipping if the following symptoms occur: your car is struggling, seems underpowered, and isn’t accelerating as it normally does. If your car’s gear is slipping and it’s losing its traction, take the time to address it immediately as this can cause serious safety problems on the road.
2. Shifting is rough.
When your transmission is working properly, shifting gears should be smooth and easy. However, if you are experiencing some irregularities in shifting, like a shaking or grinding sensation, or when you hear clunking and humming noises even in neutral, it’s time to have your transmission checked.
3. Engagement is delayed.
Does your car respond immediately or are you experiencing any delay in transmission? Does it engage when you put it on drive or reverse, or it doesn’t respond at all? Both are symptoms of either a car needing transmission fluid replacement or a resetting of the computer system. While both of these may be minor problems, it is still best to have it checked by a professional.
4. The fluid is leaking.
Generally, transmissions are sealed units that should not have any leaks as long as they’re in good condition. If you see leak spots on your garage floor or driveway where your car is normally parked, place cardboard underneath your car and leave it for a few hours. If the spots are bright red (sometimes dark red or brown), then you’re transmission is leaking.
Be careful when refilling your transmission fluid as overfilling can cause greater problems. Always follow the recommendations in your user’s manual.
5. The transmission warning light is on.
Warning lights on your dashboard such as the Check Engine light does not necessarily mean that you have transmission problems. However, when one or more of the above-mentioned symptoms are present in your car, bring it to your nearest automotive shop and have it checked by a professional.
Taking care of your car’s transmission doesn’t only mean your car is running in tip-top condition. It also means that you and those on the road with you, whether motorists, pedestrians, or bystanders, are kept safe from potential accidents that could take place due to a failure in transmission. Be a responsible motorist.
