The need for transmission service is indicated by signs of trouble. Some are obviously related to the transmission, while others may seem connected with a different component. Fortunately, this major part of the system usually alerts the driver with symptoms before serious problems develop. It's rare for a transmission to abruptly stop working without warning.
Lagging
One of the more common and obvious problems is when the vehicle doesn't move for several seconds after the driver shifts from park into drive or reverse. It might finally jerk into gear instead of shifting normally.
A related problem is the automobile having trouble traveling uphill. The car doesn't stall, but it struggles to move forward.
Sometimes the vehicle will not move forward from a stopped position when the driver lifts the brake pedal and pushes the accelerator pedal. This lagging can continue for several seconds even on flat pavement.
These issues typically get worse, so the owner should have the transmission checked and repaired. Otherwise, the automobile may eventually stop moving forward or backward at all.
Burning Smells
Dirty transmission fluid can overheat, leading to a burning smell. Dirty fluid also causes issues with shifting performance. The vehicle owner should check the fluid and see whether it's still red and somewhat translucent. If the liquid is brown, it should be drained and replaced.
Technicians who service transmissions can complete this project. Having the fluid changed should be done according to the schedule in the owner's manual, but many people don't bother. The service may be overdue.
Noises
Transmission problems can be indicated by noises. The sounds might manifest as whining, buzzing, clunking, or humming. Unfortunately, this usually only occurs when the car is in neutral gear. Drivers generally shift right through neutral, so they never hear those noises.
Check Engine Light
Not all vehicle owners know that this warning light could signal transmission problems. Since these two major components work together, performance issues with the transmission may affect the motor.
One of the more common examples is when an automatic transmission slips suddenly to a lower gear and then pops back to the correct gear. The engine revs up in response. If the dashboard has a tachometer, the driver can see the needle bounce up and come back down. Sometimes the slipping is too subtle for drivers to notice, however, but the computerized system senses the problem and makes the check engine light turn on.
For repair and maintenance services, vehicle owners depend on skilled technicians who have completed training and have experience in diagnosing and resolving problems.
Contact a local auto service technician to learn more about transmissions.
