Signs Your Transmission is Failing and What To Do When Your Transmission Fails
If you notice any unusual behavior in your car's transmission, it is crucial to take prompt action. Signs such as uneven gear shifts, strange noises, oil leaks, or the "check engine" sign coming on should not be ignored. Unresolved transmission issues can later lead to more expensive repairs. Contact an expert at www.andytransparts.com for help!
5 Signs Your Transmission is Failing
Learn how to spot the signs of transmission failure so you don't end up on the side of the road or worse, in an accident.
Transmission Failure Sign #1 - Check Engine Light
Ignoring your check engine light is never a good idea- you could be in serious danger. A check engine light can indicate problems with your transmission - more specifically, issues with the pressure, heat levels or fluid levels inside your transmission. Get your car checked by a mechanic ASAP, especially if the light is flashing red.
Transmission Failure Sign #2 - Abnormal Noises
Humming, buzzing, gurgling, whining, and for manual cars, clunking, are all signs something's wrong with your transmission. You may have low or contaminated transmission fluid.
Transmission Failure Sign #3 - Gear Slipping
You'll know your transmission's gears are slipping when it's hard to shift gears and you hear whining or grinding noises. While gear slipping can sometimes be a minor fix, it can also be extremely dangerous and a sign of bigger issues. If your engine revs loudly or your car vibrates, shakes or shifts when you're driving, avoid driving your car.
Transmission Failure Sign #4 - Leaking Fluid and Burning Smell
Transmissions shouldn't leak. If you're suspecting transmission problems, a red spot beneath your car is a great confirmation of leaking transmission fluid. If the fluid is dark brown or black, your transmission temperature is likely off and the fluid is old and/or overheating. Notice a burning smell? Your transmission fluid is overdue for a change.
Transmission Failure Sign #5 - Hard Shifting and Delay in Acceleration
If you hear a clunk, feel a hard shift when changing gears, or notice a delayed response in acceleration or movement, your transmission may be in the beginning stages of failure.
Common Causes of Transmission Failure
Wondering what's causing your transmission problems? Your transmission is probably failing due to one of these 5 factors:
Shifting gears when your car is not completely stopped is a sure way to ruin your transmission. Shifting gears when your car isn't completely stopped can also damage your driveshaft and your suspension.
Keeping low transmission fluid, causing poorly lubricated gears
Using the wrong transmission fluid
Straining your car and overheating your transmission by towing when your car isn't built for towing
Not getting your transmission serviced regularly
What To Do When Your Transmission Goes Out
When your transmission fails, it won't transfer the engine's rotation to your car's wheels. Essentially, your engine will turn but your wheels won't. If you see signs or symptoms of transmission failure or slipping, get it checked out. Don't risk it. If your transmission fails while driving, you will no longer be able to accelerate.
1.Turn on your emergency lights and pull over.
2.When the car comes to a complete stop, put it in park.
3.Call a towing service immediately.
Use transmission components to extend vehicle life
If a new transmission or new transmission parts are not part of your emergency fund, Web search www.andytransparts.com. We have a large selection of car parts to keep your car running on budget. Ready to throw in the towel? No matter what condition your car is in, we'll get you the best price, I promise.
