Car Hesitates Transmission
What is a transmission hesitation?
A transmission hesitation is a delay in the transmission of power from the engine to the wheels. This can cause the car to jerk or shudder, and it can also lead to a loss of power.
What causes a transmission hesitation?
There are many potential causes of a transmission hesitation, including:
- Low transmission fluid: The transmission fluid is responsible for lubricating the gears and other moving parts of the transmission. If the fluid level is low, it can cause the gears to slip and the transmission to hesitate.
- Dirty transmission fluid: The transmission fluid can become dirty over time, which can also cause the gears to slip and the transmission to hesitate.
- Damaged transmission: The transmission can be damaged by a variety of factors, such as a collision or a lack of maintenance. Damage to the transmission can cause it to hesitate.
- Electrical problems: The transmission is controlled by a variety of electrical components, such as the transmission control module (TCM). If there is a problem with one of these components, it can cause the transmission to hesitate.
How to fix a transmission hesitation
The best way to fix a transmission hesitation is to have it diagnosed by a qualified mechanic. The mechanic will be able to determine the cause of the hesitation and recommend the best course of action.
Some of the most common ways to fix a transmission hesitation include:
- Changing the transmission fluid: Changing the transmission fluid is a relatively simple and inexpensive way to fix a transmission hesitation. The new fluid will help to lubricate the gears and remove any contaminants that may be causing the hesitation.
- Flushing the transmission: Flushing the transmission is a more thorough way to clean the transmission fluid. This involves using a special machine to pump new fluid through the transmission and remove the old fluid. Flushing the transmission can be more expensive than changing the fluid, but it is often more effective.
- Repairing or replacing damaged parts: If the transmission is damaged, it may need to be repaired or replaced. This can be a more expensive repair, but it is necessary to fix the transmission hesitation.
Preventing transmission hesitations
There are a few things you can do to help prevent transmission hesitations, including:
- Check the transmission fluid level regularly: The transmission fluid level should be checked every few months. If the fluid level is low, it should be topped off.
- Change the transmission fluid regularly: The transmission fluid should be changed every 30,000 to 60,000 miles. This will help to keep the fluid clean and prevent it from becoming contaminated.
- Avoid harsh driving habits: Harsh driving habits, such as rapid acceleration and braking, can put stress on the transmission and lead to hesitations. Avoid these habits whenever possible.
Conclusion
Transmission hesitations can be a nuisance, but they can also be a sign of a more serious problem. If you are experiencing transmission hesitations, it is important to have it diagnosed by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible. This will help to prevent the problem from getting worse and costing you more money in the long run.
