Knowing the signs that your transmission might be failing can help you address issues before they become serious problems that are much more expensive to fix. As we’ll discuss below, some common signs include strange noises, slipping gears, fluid leaks, and more. It’s important not to ignore these signs, as a failing transmission can leave you stranded if not addressed. Let’s take a closer look at the top 5 signs and how you can properly diagnose potential transmission problems.
Sign 1 – Strange Noises
One of the first signs that something may be wrong with your transmission is new or unfamiliar noises. As the internal components start to wear down, you may notice grinding, clunking, or whining sounds that weren’t there before. Pay close attention to any strange mechanical sounds when shifting gears, accelerating, or braking. Strange noises could indicate worn-out gears, lose or damaged components, or low fluid levels that need attention from a transmission specialist.
Sign 2 – Slipping Gears
If your transmission is having trouble smoothly shifting between gears, it’s a sign things may be starting to fail. You’ll likely notice the engine RPMs increasing but with little acceleration or the vehicle lurching when it shifts. Over time, slipping gets progressively worse as more internal damage occurs. To properly diagnose if gears are slipping, a technician can put your vehicle up on a lift and check fluid levels/condition while you shift through the gears and watch for any abnormalities. They may also perform other specific transmission system tests.
Sign 3 – Fluid Leaks
All vehicles will lose some transmission fluid over time through natural seepage around seals. But a bigger leak that causes the fluid level to drop more rapidly could indicate a potentially serious problem. Look underneath your vehicle for puddles of red, pink, or brown fluid. You may also notice fluid on the dipstick is lower than recommended or the smell of burnt fluid. Any leak needs investigation, as low fluid causes overheating and accelerated wear. A tire repair shop has all the essential tools to inspect for leak sources and check fluid levels during your next service.
Sign 4 – Delayed Shifting
With a failing transmission, you may notice it takes longer than normal for gears to change when accelerating or feel sluggish to shift. This delayed response could be a sign of worn-out bands or clutches within the transmission that are having trouble gripping and switching gears smoothly under load. One way to check for delayed shifting is by carefully accelerating from a stop through the gears and comparing engagement timing differences to when the transmission was healthy. You can also take it to an auto transmission diagnostics shop to investigate the exact causes.
Sign 5 – Hard Shifting
On the other end of the spectrum is when your transmission suddenly starts shifting gears very roughly. You may feel jerks, surges, or grinding sensations when it goes through the gear changes. This harsh shifting is typically a sign the transmission is having increased difficulty controlling internal pressures and properly synchronizing components for smooth shifting. Over time, this harsh behavior further taxes already damaged parts and leads to even greater failure risks down the road. Watching the shifting behavior closely or taking it to a shop can help identify if worn components need replacing.
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