One of the first symptoms of a bad automatic transmission is the check engine light. This dashboard warning light will come on if the transmission is experiencing problems. Miller Brothers Auto Repair advises that every 30,000 miles is the mileage milestone for transmission services. If it has been longer than that since your last automatic transmission service and you notice any of the symptoms below, it’s possible that your transmission is going bad.
Burning Smells
Burning smells indicate that the automatic transmission is overheating. This is very dangerous for the transmission and causes serious damage. The most common reason why an automatic transmission overheats is that the transmission fluid is too low, dirty, and/or old.
Fluid Leaks
If you see red spots on your garage floor underneath your automobile, it’s possible that your transmission is leaking transmission fluid and this is why the level is too low. You will see the red spots toward the center of your vehicle. Transmission fluid can leak from anywhere in the system including the transmission pan.
Problems Shifting Gears
The most common sign that your transmission is having problems is difficulty shifting gears. First, you may have a problem getting your transmission to go into gear. Second, it may not shift through the gear cycle or skip gears as it shifts through the gear cycle once it’s in gear. Third, it might also slip out of gear once it’s in gear.
Strange Noises
You shouldn’t hear any strange noises coming from the transmission, which is located underneath your vehicle. Another common sign of transmission trouble is humming when the vehicle is in neutral. You may also hear grinding sounds as the transmission shifts through the gear cycle or squealing sounds. All of these things indicate a problem with the transmission. Aside from the increase in RPMs, you shouldn’t hear anything when your transmission shifts through the gear cycle.
Strange Sensations
Your transmission should also be smooth. Its operation shouldn’t cause your vehicle to vibrate or jerk. There is a small sensation when it shifts gears, but it shouldn’t be anything too noticeable. If you feel your vehicle clunk or jerk when you put it into gear and/or as it moves its way through the gear cycle, there is definitely a problem with your transmission. It’s possible that the problem is that the transmission fluid is too low.
Miller Brothers Auto Repair in Somerset, WI, can help. We are experts when it comes to transmission service and repair, so call our shop today for an appointment.