For many drivers, the thought of transmission problems is the biggest source of anxiety. If your transmission malfunctions and you ignore the signs, you will have to deal with costly repairs and extended downtime of your car. To make it easy for you to stay on top of things, here are the top 5 signs of transmission problems that every driver should know:
Strange Noises
A dead giveaway of transmission problems is unusual noises coming from your car and the transmission. If you hear whining or clunking noises from your transmission, you can be sure something is up. Even worse, if you hear a grinding noise when you’re shifting gears, you need to immediately pay attention. These noises are usually a sign of worn-out or damaged transmission parts, and you should seek the advice of a professional mechanic immediately. Do not delay seeing a mechanic, as these issues keep getting worse, and the cost of repairs will quickly skyrocket.
Slipping Gears
Sometimes, you will notice that your car is struggling to stay in gear, or it may even start to shift up or down on its own. If that happens to you, you may be dealing with a slipping transmission. This problem often manifests itself as a delay in acceleration or an abrupt loss of power while you’re driving. Don’t ignore this issue. Continuing to drive may only lead to more damage to the transmission system and will result in a more extensive and expensive repair.
Fluid Leaks
If you notice a leak underneath your car, you may be dealing with a leak in your transmission system. Transmission fluids are essential for lubricating all of the moving parts within the transmission system and are actively preventing the transmission from overheating. If you recognize a leak in your transmission system early, it may simply be a matter of finding the source of the leak and adding some more transmission fluid to your system. Addressing this issue head-on will prevent further damage and ensure the smooth operation of your car.
Burning Smell
Here’s a sign you should never ignore. If you notice a burning smell emanating from your car’s engine compartment while you are driving, you should immediately pull over safely, let your car cool down, and then inspect the engine compartment. While the burning odor may come from many different sources, it is a serious sign of trouble, and you should never ignore it. To see if the transmission system is the culprit, check the fluid levels and temperature. An overheated transmission fluid can lose its lubricating properties and cause premature wear and tear on transmission components. In any case, if you notice a burning smell, it’s time to see a qualified mechanic to make sure your car is still safe to drive.
Dashboard Warning Lights
While this is really the most obvious sign that you have a problem, many drivers tend to ignore it. Modern cars usually come equipped with a vehicle monitoring system that raises alarms for many of the car’s systems, including the transmission system. If the check engine light comes on or you see a transmission temperature warning, don’t ignore it. These warning lights are usually a good indicator that you have a problem, and you should have them checked out immediately by a professional mechanic to avoid causing further damage to your car.
Take Action
If you notice any of these signs of transmission problems, don’t hesitate to schedule an inspection with Boling Auto Service. Our experienced technicians can diagnose and repair transmission issues quickly, ensuring your vehicle remains safe and reliable to drive.
Contact Boling Auto Service today at 937-731-3548 and schedule your transmission service appointment. Your vehicle’s performance, safety, and longevity depend on it. Remember, early detection and intervention are key to preventing costly transmission repairs. Stay alert, and address any signs of transmission trouble immediately to keep your vehicle running smoothly for miles to come.
