You are driving along and you hear grinding noises. Or, you’re driving along and all of a sudden you lose power. These are just two signs that your automatic transmission is going bad. It’s important to address any transmission trouble as soon as possible; otherwise, you run the risk of damaging the transmission to the point where it will need to be replaced. University Auto Repair can inspect your automatic transmission if you notice any of the following symptoms of a failing transmission below.
You Have a Transmission Fluid Leak
A transmission fluid leak is sometimes easier to identify than any other leak, and the reason why is where the leak is located. Fluids leaking out of your engine tend to leak toward the front of your car, truck, or utility vehicle. Transmission leaks are located more toward the center of your automobile. Transmission fluid is red, so if you have red fluid leaking toward the center of your vehicle, it’s probably transmission fluid.
The Transmission Refuses to Go Into Gear
Another sign of an automatic transmission problem is difficulty getting your automobile into gear. Your transmission should respond when you move the gear shift from Park to Reverse or Drive without hesitation. Your transmission is going bad if you can’t get your vehicle into gear from Park or Neutral. Your gear shift should always be responsive, and your vehicle should not clunk or grind when you put it into gear.
The Gear Cycle Is Delayed Between Gears
Even if you can get your automobile into gear without a problem, there should be no delays between the gears when going through the gear cycle. For example, your vehicle should shift between gears at about the same speed each time and it should downshift when you need it to. Any delays between gears or when you need it to downshift is a sign that the transmission is not operating as it should be. It’s best to have it checked out ASAP.
The Transmission Is Slipping Out of Gear
Your transmission may also slip out of gear, and this can happen at any speed. You’ll know that your transmission has slipped out of gear because your engine will suddenly go into neutral and you will lose power. This is a sign of serious transmission problems, so it’s a good idea to find a safe place to park and call for a tow truck. This ensures that you don’t damage your transmission further as you head to the auto service shop.
The Gear Shifts Are Rough and Noisy
Finally, the gear shifts should be quiet and relatively smooth. You might feel your car jerk slightly with each gear shift, but that sensation should barely be noticeable. You shouldn’t hear grinding or squealing between gears, nor should you hear grinding and squealing when your gears are shifting. Any strange sensations or noises while the automatic transmission is in operation signals a problem going on with the transmission that needs to be addressed right away.
You don’t need to look any further than University Auto Repair in Flagstaff, AZ. We’d be happy to inspect your vehicle’s transmission and make any necessary repairs.
