What are the signs of transmission failure?

This article answers what are the common signs of transmission failure and what to do.

Top 5 Signs of Transmission Failure

1. Issues shifting gears:

Issues with gears are dangerous, if not fatal. If you’re accelerating on a highway and your car doesn’t accelerate this is an indicator that your car is having issues shifting into gears. This can feel different between a manual transmission and an automatic transmission. 

Issues shifting gears in a Manual Transmission:

This is easier to detect with a manual transmission than an automatic. In a manual transmission, you’re shifting gears as you change speeds. When you’re shifting but the car isn’t responding it’ll rev higher RPM’s ( the measure of the rotating crankshaft). This is a good indicator that you should get your transmission checked.

 

Issues shifting gears in an Automatic Transmission:

In an automatic transmission, you’re also looking for high RPM’s. As you step on the gas pedal you’ll notice the vehicle hesitating to accelerate. The RPM meter will spike. If you’re able to get it to shift it might feel jerky. 

 

2. Grinding or Shaking

This is more common for automatic transmissions. During gear changes, you might experience shaking or vibrating. Stop driving and have the vehicle checked immediately, Truman’s Automotive is here to help. 

 

3. Noises in neutral

Do you hear noises? Switch your car into neutral and listen. If you hear noises while your car is in neutral this could be an indicator of a transmission or transmission fluid issue. This could be related to low or bad transmission fluid. It could be an indicator of other problems with your transmission that require a rebuild or replacement. 

 

4. Other noises

Metal grinding, clunking, whining, humming, and other strange noises could be related to your transmission. These could be indicators of other severe issues. If you have these noises checked to avoid engine failure. 

 

5. Leaking Red Fluid

Transmission fluid looks different from oil. Transmission fluid is a red, sweet-smelling liquid. If you notice this fluid under your car check the transmission fluid level before driving and make sure you get to a specialist immediately. Don’t drive with low transmission fluids. 

What does transmission fluid look like?

6. Burning Smells – Severe

Burning smells are a fire hazard and severe. An overheated transmission has a burning smell associated with burnt transmission fluid. Turn your engine off, and let it cool. Make sure there’s no fire or smoke. Do not park inside in the event of a fire. Schedule service or a tow to your Des Moines Truman’s automotive or let our team members help schedule your tow. 

 

7. Your check engine light is on.

If your check engine light is on this could be related to your transmission or severe issues. Here are the most common reasons for a check engine light. 

 

Don’t wait for transmission failure or other problems to hit. Get ahead of an unexpected breakdown with Truman’s Automotive & ADAS Calibrations. 

 

Transmissions are not a problem to ignore. Check your transmission fluid. Make sure there are no burning or gear issues before driving. Schedule an immediate check-up at Trum

and Automotive & ADAS Calibrations in Altoona. The Truman’s team is here to answer your questions on price, and time, and to get you back on the road.