The transmission is basically the component that keeps your car moving. It’s the part of your vehicle that helps it shift gears smoothly and transfers power from the engine to the wheels. When something goes wrong with the transmission, you might start to notice some performance issues. Ignoring those issues can lead to some hefty repair bills down the line or engine stalling, which is every driver’s worst nightmare.

So, how do you know if your transmission is in trouble? Being aware of the common signs can help you catch problems early and avoid major breakdowns.

In this blog, Jim Krueger Automotive Repair’s mechanics will break down the key indicators that your transmission could use a professional evaluation.

Let’s take a look at the main signs.

Slipping Gears

Gear slipping is one of the more common and obvious signs of a transmission issue. Letting a transmission get to this point of damage or wear can be dangerous as it affects your control over the vehicle.

Symptoms of Gear Slipping

Unexpected gear shifts: Your car may shift into another gear without warning.
Loss of power: You might notice a lack of acceleration or a feeling that the car is struggling to move.
High RPMs: The engine may rev higher than normal during gear changes.

Causes of Gear Slipping

Gear slipping can occur for several reasons. First, worn-out gears may fail to engage properly over time. Additionally, low transmission fluid can result in insufficient lubrication, causing gears to slip. In manual transmissions, a worn clutch can also lead to this frustrating issue.

With regular maintenance, you can prevent gear slipping in your transmission.

Delayed or Rough Shifting

Delayed or rough shifting can occur in both automatic and manual transmissions. While this stage of a transmission issue may not lead to an immediate breakdown, it can certainly result in one down the line if the problem isn’t addressed.

Symptoms of Delayed or Rough Shifting

Hesitation: The car hesitates or delays when shifting gears.
Harsh transitions: You feel a jolt or clunk when the gear finally engages.
Unusual noises: Grinding or clunking sounds during shifting.

Causes of Delayed or Rough Shifting

Delayed or rough shifting can be the direct result of a few things. Low or dirty transmission fluid can hinder smooth gear changes, while worn internal components, such as synchronizers in manual transmissions or solenoids in automatics, may also contribute to the problem.

Additionally, modern vehicles with electronic transmissions can experience software glitches that affect shifting performance. Whatever the cause, this is generally a pretty easy fix if caught in time.

Transmission Fluid Leaks

The transmission uses hydraulic pressure to do its job, and it has a bunch of seals to keep everything closed up tight. But just like anything else, those seals can wear out and get a little loose over time, causing leaks. When you notice even the smallest leak, there’s no time to waste; your car needs to be looked at.

Symptoms of Transmission Fluid Leaks

Fluid puddles: Red or brown fluid puddles under your car.
Low fluid levels: Regularly needing to top up the transmission fluid.
Burning smell: A burnt odor indicating overheating transmission fluid.

Causes of Transmission Fluid Leaks

Transmission fluid leaks can occur for several reasons. Damaged or worn seals and gaskets can allow fluid to escape, while a cracked transmission pan can lead to significant leaks. Transmission fluid lines may become loose or damaged over time, further contributing to the problem.

Warning Lights

Warning lights are your car’s way of talking to you. In modern vehicles, sensors are built in to spot any transmission problems and will light up on the dashboard to let you know something’s not right. So, if you see one of those warning lights, it’s a good idea to pay attention.

Different Transmission Warning Lights

Check engine light: Transmission issues often cause the check engine light to illuminate.
Specific transmission warning light: Some cars have a dedicated transmission warning light.

Remember that every make and model is different, so expect the warning lights to vary slightly. Get to know your car a bit more by knowing what the warning lights mean.

Causes of Transmission Warning Lights

Transmission warning lights can be triggered for a couple of reasons. Sometimes, faulty sensors may set off the warning lights even when there isn’t an actual problem, which is the best reason but not the only one.

On the other hand, genuine issues like low fluid levels, overheating, or electrical faults can also cause those lights to come on, signaling that it’s time to take a closer look.

Overheating

Overheating can occur in both new and old transmissions since it can be caused by issues affecting any transmission, regardless of age. Unfortunately, regular maintenance doesn’t necessarily get you out of the woods either. But the good news is that you’ll usually receive a warning signal that gives you ample time to address the issue before overheating leads to a vehicle shutdown.

Symptoms of Transmission Overheating

Burning smell: A strong burnt odor from the transmission fluid.
High temperature gauge: Transmission temperature gauge showing high readings.
Poor performance: Noticeable decline in vehicle performance and efficiency.

Causes of Transmission Overheating

Transmission overheating can occur in both new and old transmissions because several factors can influence their performance. The main reason for overheating is low or dirty fluid that can’t effectively cool the transmission, leading to increased temperatures.

Additionally, hauling heavy loads or driving in extreme conditions can put extra strain on the system, and internal blockages in the transmission fluid cooling system can also contribute to overheating.

Stay Ahead of Major Transmission Issues With Our Repair Services

No one wants to find themselves stranded on the side of the road. That’s why it’s essential not to ignore warning signs; they’re your vehicle’s way of telling you something is wrong. If you notice any signs of a transmission issue, Jim Krueger Automotive Repair welcomes you to bring your car to our shop immediately.

Our mechanical team specializes in diagnostics and repairs. Don’t wait for a minor issue to escalate—call us at (610) 779-9733 to schedule your appointment today.