How To Identify Problems With Transmission

The Signs Of Transmission Going Out

Conroe, United States - October 14, 2022 /Milstead Service Center/

Each part of the car has an important function. When any part is impaired, it affects the performance and safety of the vehicle. A vehicle's transmission is a complex system made up of numerous parts. The transmission must be serviced per vehicle manufacturer recommendations or every 30,000 miles. 

Transmission repairs may be needed periodically. Vehicle owners must choose a trusted, reliable auto repair shop. Milstead Service Center in Conroe, TX, has expertise in different types of vehicle transmissions. Affordable and dependable auto repair is its hallmark. Milstead Service Center has ASE-Certified technicians who are up to date on the latest in automotive technology, diagnostics, and repairs. This auto repair shop performs transmission repairs for cars, vans, trucks, SUVs, and RVs. In this article, Milstead Service Center shares some signs of transmission problems in vehicles.

Signs of Transmission Problems in Vehicles

1. Check Engine Light Warning

When there is transmission trouble, the engine control module alerts the driver by turning on the check engine light. Often, transmission trouble comes with other problems, as further enumerated below.

2. Burning Smell

A burning smell from beneath cars, trucks, or utility vehicles indicates an overheating vehicle's transmission. This is generally due to low transmission fluid levels. Transmission fluid protects the transmission, lubricates the parts, and helps to shift the gears. When transmission fluid is low, it can lead to a burning odor. 

3. Transmission Fluid Leak

Transmission fluid leaks can result in low transmission fluid. The leaks can occur out of transmission hoses, transmission pan, pan gasket, and other parts of the transmission. Drops of transmission fluid may be seen on the garage floor underneath the vehicle and towards its center. The transmission fluid is red, so it is easy to identify a transmission leak. 

4. Gear Shift Problems

When transmission develops problems, the gears also develop problems. It may become impossible to get the vehicle to go into gear. Or else, putting the car in gear produces loud sounds. During the gear cycle, the transmission may not shift or skip gears in the cycle. When the transmission is faulty, it can slip out of gear. The engine revs suddenly and then loses power when this happens. This is because the transmission slips out of gear, and the vehicle is neutral. 

5. Vibration During Gear Shift

Ideally, when the transmission shifts gears, there is minimal movement. If a shake or vibration is felt when shifting gears, it may be due to transmission issues.

6. Strange Sounds

Grinding or squealing noises when the transmission shifts gears and a loud clunk when putting the vehicle into gear may point to a transmission problem that needs transmission repair. 

7. Dragging Clutch

A dragging clutch is another symptom of a bad transmission.  The clutch plate does not disengage with the flywheel, which causes friction when shifting gears and making noise. This happens when excess dirt and slack collect in and around the pedal, causing a blockage around the pedal. Clutch dragging can also be due to improper clutch cables that cause broken linkage and the failure to separate the clutch disc from the flywheel.

When in doubt about the condition of transmission or any function of vehicles, owners may require help from an auto repair shop. Milstead Service Center is ideal for auto, truck, or RV repairs, including transmission repair, in Conroe, TX. This auto repair center focuses on quality auto repairs and exemplary customer service. For any auto repair needs in Conroe, TX, vehicle owners can contact Milstead Service Center at (936) 441-3500.