Transmission trouble is one of the most significant and common car problems you can experience and find the cause of the problem can often be quite difficult. If your transmission is going through troubling times, it will undoubtedly have an immediate negative effect on your engine and the overall efficiency of your vehicle. That is why you need to look out for telltale signs of transmission problems and be able to figure out when you need to bring in your car to the shop to have it looked at.
Warning Light
Your Check Engine light can be an indicator of many things, but if it occurs in conjunction with any of the problems above, this can be an indicator of transmission issues. Any time you see this warning light, take your car in to have it diagnosed by a certified technician.
Noisy transmission
The gears of your transmission slowly but steadily wear themselves down over time. This and other factors could easily cause strange noises while shifting gears or moving out of an idle position. Clanging, banging or screeching would indicate problems, and solutions range from simple replacement of the transmission fluid to costly and complex overhaul or replacement of the transmission
Leaking Fluid
Transmissions are sealed systems that should never lose fluid. If you notice a dripping oil that is colored in shades of red or brown, you may have transmission problems.
Muddy fluid
Speaking of transmission fluid, it should have a slightly sweet smell and should be bright red in color. If your vehicle’s fluid starts to look murky, that’s a sign of potential issues.
Burning smell
The smell of something burning could be evidence of an overheating transmission. This smell could be a sign of a potential fire hazard, so be sure to take immediate action and bring your vehicle into the shop for inspection.
Fluid Leakage
The above-mentioned smell may also point to fluid leakage from your automobile. Whether it’s oil or transmission fluid, your transmission could potentially suffer from a lack of what is leaking. Make checking for leaks a regular part of your car maintenance schedule. Waiting to take your car in for a check-up often results in far bigger problems.
Slipping Gears
If your transmission is slipping gears, it has the potential to pop out of gear while you are driving. It should go without saying that this is a serious issue and should be looked at asap. This is quite a common issue that is typically caused by a lack of enough transmission fluid but could also be due to more serious issues.
Delays in movement
If your vehicle stalls for a few seconds and hesitates to move after shifting gears, it warrants your attention. This could indicate a variety of different issues. Whether it’s a sign of gearbox malfunction or transmission fluid problems, bringing your vehicle into the shop is a must.
Surging
When your transmission becomes too contaminated, your vehicle may begin to jump forward or fall back for no apparent reason. “Surging” is often a sign of contaminated transmission fluid. Again, a transmission fluid flush could be all that’s required to solve this problem.
Unable to reverse
Your vehicle won’t move when put in reverse. Cold weather can make this a much more common problem, and it’s a significant, although obvious sign that your transmission is in big trouble.
No starting/slow starting
Another seemingly straightforward symptom of transmission trouble is when your vehicle won’t start or only starts after several attempts. This problem also becomes more frequent in cold weather.
Warning Light
Your Check Engine light can be an indicator of many things, but if it occurs in conjunction with any of the problems above, this can be an indicator of transmission issues. Any time you see this warning light, take your car in to have it diagnosed by a certified technician.
At Angel’s El Toro Transmission, honesty, integrity, and the quality of our work have been the foundation of our success. Your complete satisfaction will always be our main concern.
Angel’s Transmission and Auto Repair has been serving clients in Mission Viejo and nearby communities for over two decades. Our technicians are continuously training to stay updated on the latest information and technology. The skilled and certified technicians average 20 years of experience in the Automotive Repair Industry.
Call us (949) 587-9060 for an appointment or fill out our contact form and let us help you with transmission repair services or general auto repair.
