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Your car’s transmission is one of the most critical components in ensuring smooth operation. It transfers power from the engine to the wheels, allowing your car to move. You’ll likely notice symptoms that can indicate an issue when a transmission fails. You can tell your transmission fails if you experience slipping gears, delayed or rough shifting, unusual noises, or a burning smell. Additionally, fluid leaks, warning lights, or unresponsiveness in Drive or Reverse are clear signs that your transmission needs attention. Recognizing these symptoms early can help avoid more severe damage and costly repairs.
Signs That Your Transmission Is Failing
If you’ve been asking yourself how do I know my transmission is failing, here are several key signs to look out for:
• Slipping Gears: If your car suddenly slips out of gear while driving, it can feel like it has momentarily lost power. This could be a sign that the transmission is struggling to stay in the correct gear, making driving unpredictable and putting extra strain on your transmission over time.
• Delayed or Rough Shifting: A noticeable delay when shifting between gears or a jerking sensation during the shift may indicate transmission wear. This often happens when transmission fluid is low or internal components wear out, making smooth gear changes difficult.
• Unusual Noises: Grinding or whining noises during gear shifts can signal something wrong inside the transmission. These sounds may indicate worn or damaged parts that need attention before they cause more significant problems.
• Transmission Fluid Leaks: If you notice reddish fluid pooling underneath your vehicle, it’s likely a transmission fluid leak. Low fluid levels reduce lubrication and cooling within the transmission, leading to overheating and further damage if not addressed.
• Burning Smell: A burning odor while driving could signal overheating transmission fluid. This typically happens when the fluid becomes old or contaminated, reducing its ability to cool the transmission and increasing wear and tear.
• Warning Light on the Dashboard: Your vehicle’s warning lights can alert you to transmission issues. While the check engine light often covers a variety of problems, it’s worth investigating further if it comes on in combination with any of the symptoms mentioned.
• Unresponsive in Drive or Reverse: A delay or lack of response when shifting into Drive or Reverse is a clear sign that your transmission may fail. This issue can prevent your vehicle from moving altogether and requires immediate inspection.
What Causes a Transmission to Fail?
You might wonder why my transmission fails now that you’ve learned the symptoms. There are several potential causes, ranging from maintenance issues to wear and tear over time:
• Low or Old Transmission Fluid: Transmission fluid keeps the system lubricated and cool. Over time, this fluid can become contaminated or low, leading to overheating or internal damage. Click here to learn about how often you should change transmission fluid.
• Worn Clutch (for Manual Transmissions): If you drive a manual car, a worn-out clutch can lead to transmission failure. When the clutch can no longer engage properly, you may experience issues with gear shifting.
• Failed Torque Converter: In automatic vehicles, the torque converter significantly transfers power to the wheels. A failing torque converter can cause symptoms such as slipping gears and unusual vibrations.
• Broken Transmission Bands: Transmission bands connect the gears, and if one of these breaks or becomes worn, your transmission won’t function properly.
• Solenoid Issues: Transmission solenoids control fluid flow throughout the system. If they malfunction, the transmission won’t get the proper amount of fluid to operate smoothly, leading to failure.
What To Do If Your Transmission Is Failing
If you suspect your transmission is failing, it should be inspected immediately. Transmission repairs can be expensive, and waiting too long can lead to total transmission failure, which may require a complete replacement.
McCullough NAPA Auto Care offers comprehensive transmission services, including fluid checks and flushes as needed, repairs, and total transmission replacements. Our ASE-certified technicians are trained to diagnose transmission issues and provide the necessary repairs to get you back on the road quickly and safely.
Schedule Your Transmission Service with McCullough NAPA Auto Care
If you’ve noticed any signs that your transmission is failing, such as slipping gears, rough shifting, or unusual noises, it’s time to take action. Regular maintenance and timely repairs can help keep your transmission in top shape.
Contact McCullough NAPA Auto Care to schedule an inspection and keep your car running smoothly.
