Many drivers do not understand how complex the transmission in their vehicle actually is. Did you know it is made up of hundreds of interconnected parts that are constantly moving, rubbing, heating up, and interacting with other components, both internal and external? These components are constantly exposed to friction and heat, receiving more wear and tear than the other simpler systems that make up your vehicle.
So what are the symptoms of automatic transmission problems? Here are the most common and the most obvious signs you will notice:
- Shifting Problems: It may be hard to shift, the gears may slip out, or you hear a “whining” sound or clunking and thumping sounds when you shift. Worn out parts may cause you to force the gearshift into the next gear, causing lurching or jerking.
- Burnt Smell: If the transmission fluid is low or dirty, transmission parts can overheat, resulting in a burnt smell from the transmission.
- Warning Light: If the transmission warning light on the instrument panel comes on along with shifting problems, schedule a diagnostic test to see what kind of transmission repair is needed.
- Complete Transmission Failure: If the transmission fails completely, you won’t be able to shift at all and your car won’t be safe to drive. You will be looking at a major transmission repair, such as a transmission rebuild or replacement.
Because the transmission system is constantly exposed to both heat and stress, it is crucial that you keep up with the transmission service recommended in your owner’s manual (i.e., between every 60,000 to 100,000 miles).
Need to know more about what are the symptoms of automatic transmission problems? Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Rum River Automotive for more information about transmission repair and to schedule an appointment. Since 1997, our auto shop has served vehicle owners in Princeton, MN, and in the surrounding areas of Milaca, MN, and Zimmerman, MN.
Many drivers do not understand how complex the transmission in their vehicle actually is. Did you know it is made up of hundreds of interconnected parts that are constantly moving, rubbing, heating up, and interacting with other components, both internal and external? These components are constantly exposed to friction and heat, receiving more wear and tear than the other simpler systems that make up your vehicle.
So what are the symptoms of automatic transmission problems? Here are the most common and the most obvious signs you will notice:
- Shifting Problems: It may be hard to shift, the gears may slip out, or you hear a “whining” sound or clunking and thumping sounds when you shift. Worn out parts may cause you to force the gearshift into the next gear, causing lurching or jerking.
- Burnt Smell: If the transmission fluid is low or dirty, transmission parts can overheat, resulting in a burnt smell from the transmission.
- Warning Light: If the transmission warning light on the instrument panel comes on along with shifting problems, schedule a diagnostic test to see what kind of transmission repair is needed.
- Complete Transmission Failure: If the transmission fails completely, you won’t be able to shift at all and your car won’t be safe to drive. You will be looking at a major transmission repair, such as a transmission rebuild or replacement.
Because the transmission system is constantly exposed to both heat and stress, it is crucial that you keep up with the transmission service recommended in your owner’s manual (i.e., between every 60,000 to 100,000 miles).
Need to know more about what are the symptoms of automatic transmission problems? Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Rum River Automotive for more information about transmission repair and to schedule an appointment. Since 1997, our auto shop has served vehicle owners in Princeton, MN, and in the surrounding areas of Milaca, MN, and Zimmerman, MN.
