April 25, 2023

Early Signs Of Transmission Failure

Transmission failure can be a costly and frustrating problem for vehicle owners. The earlier you catch the signs of transmission failure, the more likely you are to save yourself from expensive repairs or even having to replace the transmission altogether. Here are some early signs of transmission failure that you should look out for:

  1. Delayed engagement: If you shift into drive or reverse and there’s a delay before the vehicle starts moving, this could indicate a problem with your transmission.
  2. Slipping gears: When the gears slip or the transmission jumps out of gear while driving, it’s a sign that the transmission is not working properly.
  3. Rough shifting: If you feel a noticeable jolt or a clunk when shifting gears, this could be a sign that the transmission is not shifting smoothly.
  4. Unusual noises: Grinding, whining, or clunking sounds while shifting or driving can indicate a problem with the transmission.
  5. Fluid leaks: Transmission fluid leaks are a common sign of transmission problems. Look for puddles of red fluid under the vehicle.
  6. Burning smell: A burning smell coming from under the hood could be a sign of overheating, which can cause damage to the transmission.

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to take your vehicle to a trusted mechanic as soon as possible to diagnose and fix the problem before it becomes more severe.

How do I know if my transmission is starting to fail?

There are several signs that can indicate that your transmission is starting to fail. Here are some of the most common ones:
  1. Shifting problems: One of the most noticeable signs of transmission problems is difficulty shifting gears, such as hesitation, grinding or a delay in shifting.
  2. Slipping gears: If the gears slip, it might feel like your car is suddenly losing power, or the engine revs high without any corresponding increase in speed.
  3. Unusual noises: Strange noises such as whining, clunking or buzzing while driving, or when shifting gears, could indicate a problem with your transmission.
  4. Burning smell: A burning smell while driving could indicate overheating of the transmission, which is a sign that there could be a serious problem.
  5. Leaking fluid: Leaking fluid can be a sign that there is a problem with the transmission. You can check for fluid leaks by inspecting the ground beneath your vehicle or by checking the fluid levels of your transmission.
  6. Warning light: If your vehicle’s “check engine” light comes on or the transmission warning light illuminates, it is a clear indication that something is wrong.

If you are experiencing any of these signs or symptoms, it is best to have your transmission inspected by a trusted mechanic to prevent further damage and to avoid the risk of complete transmission failure.

What happens before your transmission goes out?

Before a transmission completely fails, there are usually several signs that indicate that there is a problem. Here are some of the common things that can happen before your transmission goes out:
  1. Slipping gears: If you notice that your transmission is slipping gears while driving, it means that it is not engaging properly. This could be due to low transmission fluid levels, a worn clutch or other internal parts.
  2. Rough shifting: If you feel a jolt or a thud when shifting gears, this could indicate that there is a problem with your transmission. The transmission may not be shifting smoothly due to worn internal parts or a malfunctioning solenoid.
  3. Overheating: An overheating transmission can cause serious damage and even complete failure. This can be caused by low fluid levels, a clogged transmission cooler or a malfunctioning cooling system.
  4. Unusual noises: Whining, grinding or clunking noises while shifting or driving could be a sign that your transmission is starting to fail.
  5. Delayed engagement: If there is a delay between shifting gears and the vehicle moving, it could be due to a problem with the transmission.
  6. Burning smell: A burning smell coming from under the hood or from the transmission itself could indicate that the transmission is overheating or that the fluid is burning due to internal damage.

If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to have your transmission checked by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible to avoid further damage or complete transmission failure.

Is it OK to drive with a bad transmission?

It is not recommended to drive with a bad transmission as it can be dangerous and cause further damage to your vehicle. A bad transmission can cause your car to suddenly stop or fail to accelerate, which can be a safety hazard while driving. Additionally, continuing to drive with a bad transmission can cause more damage to other parts of your car, which can result in costly repairs. It is always best to have your transmission inspected by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible if you suspect that there is a problem. They can diagnose the issue and advise you on the best course of action, which may include repairing or replacing the transmission.

Can I still drive my car if the transmission is slipping?

It is not recommended to drive your car if the transmission is slipping. A slipping transmission is a sign that there is a problem with the internal components of the transmission, which can result in further damage if not addressed promptly. Driving with a slipping transmission can cause your car to suddenly lose power, make unexpected and potentially dangerous movements, or even completely break down. It is best to have your transmission inspected by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible to diagnose the problem and determine the best course of action. In some cases, a slipping transmission may be repairable, while in other cases, it may require a complete replacement.