Most Common Signs of Transmission Problems
But no matter how lovingly you take care of your car, something can break. That’s why it’s important to know the most common signs of a transmission problem. Ignoring them can cause serious damage to your transmission and costly repairs. How to tell if your car has a transmission problem
The mechanical parts of your transmission can fail for a variety of reasons. These issues indicate that your car has a transmission problem.
1. Check Engine Light: Nobody likes an annoying check engine light, but it stays on for a reason. It’s often just letting you know that your car isn’t running well, so don’t tape over the light or take your car to a service center.
2. Screeching or squealing noises: A properly functioning gearbox will be mostly silent. If your gearbox suddenly starts to sound like an industrial grinder or an angry puppy, something is definitely wrong.
3. Sticking clutch: This issue only occurs with manual transmissions. If your clutch is stuck, you may have play in the clutch pedal and be unable to shift.
4. Vibrations when shifting: A healthy transmission will shift smoothly. If you feel a shudder when shifting, you may have a problem with the gears.
Slipping gears: If your car suddenly slips into the wrong gear while driving, it could be that your transmission belt is worn out. This could also indicate a problem with the transmission fluid. How to tell if your car needs transmission fluid
Any of the symptoms in the previous section could also mean that your transmission fluid level is low or dirty. However, there are also some issues that almost always indicate an oil problem. How to tell if your car needs transmission fluid:
– Burning smell: A burning smell is usually caused by having too little gear oil. Without proper lubrication, parts overheat and start to burn the oil.
– Puddle under the car: If you notice a puddle of reddish, sweet-smelling liquid under your car, this is a sign that your transmission fluid is leaking.
Refusal to Shift in Gear: If your car simply refuses to shift gears, it’s most likely due to low or dirty fluid.
Where to Get Automatic Transmission Service in Chantilly and Warrenton
Taking good care of your car is especially important in Northern Virginia. Cold winters are your transmission fluid’s worst nightmare, while hot, humid summers can fill your car’s interior with dirt and leaves.
Advanced Automotive has been helping Virginia residents maintain their vehicles for over 35 years. With convenient locations in Chantilly and Warrenton, our ASE-certified technicians can diagnose and repair your transmission problems, no matter what vehicle you drive. Make an appointment, give us a call, or drop in for a surprise visit.