If the check engine light comes on while you are driving your automobile, it’s possible that the transmission is going bad. University Auto Repair advises that the transmission does not have a light of its own so the check engine light is illuminated when the transmission is having problems. Here are additional signs that you need to have your automatic transmission serviced or repaired.
Burning Transmission Odors
Burning odors coming from the transmission indicate that the transmission is overheating. This can happen if the transmission fluid is too low or has lost its viscosity because it is too old. It’s a good idea to replace the transmission fluid every 30,000 miles to avoid this.
Humming Sounds in Neutral
If you suspect your automatic transmission is going bad, start the engine and put the transmission into neutral. If you hear humming noises, the transmission has a problem. You should also never hear grinding, squealing, or clunking noises coming from the transmission.
Leaking Transmission Fluid
Leaking transmission fluid is red in color and generally puddles underneath the center of your automobile. Transmission fluid can leak out of the torque converter, the pan, the pan gasket, or the seals and hoses. Have a transmission fluid leak fixed as soon as possible to avoid further damage.
Problems With the Gear Shifts
Another sign that your transmission needs to be serviced or repaired is if it is having problems shifting gears. You may hear the noises we discussed above, or the transmission may skip gears in the gear cycle. It may also hesitate to shift through the gears or slip out of gear.
Unresponsive Transmission
In severe cases, the automatic transmission will become completely unresponsive. You will be unable to get the transmission to go into gear. In addition, the transmission will refuse to shift gears when needed. This is a definite sign that your transmission needs to be repaired.
Vibration or Shaking
Finally, you should not feel any vibration or shaking when the automatic transmission shifts the gears or when you put the transmission into gear. These actions should be smooth and relatively silent. The only thing you should detect is the difference in the engine’s RPMs.
University Auto Repair is the best auto service shop in Flagstaff, AZ, so call us today to schedule an appointment for your automobile if you are having problems with the automatic transmission. We will inspect the transmission and recommend the proper course of action.
