3 Warning Signs of a Bad Transmission
The modern automatic transmission gives your car smooth power delivery to the drive wheels and excellent fuel economy. Some are especially good at hauling heavy loads, while others are designed for lighter daily driving duties in cars, SUVs, and pickups. A transmission has many moving parts and metal gears that require maintenance and occasional repairs to stay in good condition. If you think your car’s transmission is acting up, here are three warning signs of a bad transmission.
1. Transmission Fluid Leaks or Smells Burnt
Leaking transmission fluid is a sure sign that your vehicle needs the help of an auto repair service. You also might notice the smell of burnt transmission fluid, which indicates your transmission is overdue for servicing. According to Consumer Reports, automatic transmission fluid changes are required between 30,000 and 100,000 miles. It’s best to consult your owner’s manual to learn what service interval the automaker recommends for your car’s transmission fluid.
2. Transmission Slips in and Out of Gear
Whether shifting to a higher or lower gear, your automatic transmission should change gears smoothly as you go faster or slow down. You might notice a loud grinding sound coming from your transmission while driving as well. If the transmission slips while shifting, the gears are overly worn. The same is true if you notice the transmission slipping in and out of gear while you're trying to maintain speed. Either condition indicates a pending transmission failure if you don’t have an auto repair facility fix it.
3. Engine Revs While Losing Power
When the transmission slips out of gear while you are trying to maintain speed, it causes the engine to rev higher until slipping back into gear due to a lack of resistance in the gearbox. While the engine revs at higher RPMs, the drive wheels lose power due to a lack of power at the drivetrain. You might not notice the transmission slipping in and out of gear as easily as you will notice the engine revving at higher RPMs and a lack of power to the drive wheels. Until the transmission slips back into gear, your vehicle will only coast.
When your transmission is acting up, you can call or visit our auto repair facility to schedule a transmission diagnosis service that can determine if it’s repairable or should be replaced. If a transmission replacement is needed, we can help locate and install a rebuilt, refurbished, or completely new transmission that fits your budget. Call Tewksbury Gas & Service today.
