Car Vibrating Transmission: Causes and Solutions

If you’re experiencing a vibrating transmission in your car, it’s important to get it checked out by a mechanic as soon as possible. A vibrating transmission can be a sign of a serious problem, such as a worn-out transmission mount or a damaged driveshaft. In this article, we’ll discuss the most common causes of a vibrating transmission and provide some solutions for each.

Causes of a Vibrating Transmission

1. Worn-Out Transmission Mount

The transmission mount is a rubber or metal part that connects the transmission to the frame of the car. Over time, the transmission mount can wear out and cause the transmission to vibrate. This is most likely to happen in older cars with high mileage.

2. Damaged Driveshaft

The driveshaft is a rotating shaft that connects the transmission to the wheels. A damaged driveshaft can cause the transmission to vibrate, especially at high speeds. Driveshaft damage can be caused by a number of factors, such as a bent shaft or a worn-out universal joint.

3. Incorrect Transmission Fluid Level

The transmission fluid is responsible for lubricating and cooling the transmission. If the transmission fluid level is too low or too high, it can cause the transmission to vibrate. Checking the transmission fluid level is a simple task that can be done at home.

4. Torque Converter Problems

The torque converter is a fluid coupling that connects the engine to the transmission. A damaged torque converter can cause the transmission to vibrate, especially when the car is shifting gears. Torque converter problems are most common in automatic transmissions.

5. Differential Problems

The differential is a part of the drivetrain that distributes power to the wheels. A damaged differential can cause the transmission to vibrate, especially when the car is turning. Differential problems are most common in all-wheel drive and four-wheel drive vehicles.

Solutions for a Vibrating Transmission

1. Replace the Worn-Out Transmission Mount

If the transmission mount is worn out, it will need to be replaced. This is a relatively simple repair that can be done by a mechanic in a few hours. Replacing the transmission mount will stop the vibration and prevent further damage to the transmission.

2. Repair or Replace the Damaged Driveshaft

If the driveshaft is damaged, it will need to be repaired or replaced. Repairing a driveshaft is possible, but it is often more cost-effective to replace it. Replacing the driveshaft will stop the vibration and prevent further damage to the transmission.

3. Check the Transmission Fluid Level

If the transmission fluid level is too low or too high, it will need to be adjusted. Checking the transmission fluid level is a simple task that can be done at home. Once the transmission fluid level is correct, the vibration should stop.

4. Repair or Replace the Torque Converter

If the torque converter is damaged, it will need to be repaired or replaced. Repairing a torque converter is possible, but it is often more cost-effective to replace it. Replacing the torque converter will stop the vibration and prevent further damage to the transmission.

5. Repair or Replace the Differential

If the differential is damaged, it will need to be repaired or replaced. Repairing a differential is possible, but it is often more cost-effective to replace it. Replacing the differential will stop the vibration and prevent further damage to the transmission.

Conclusion

A vibrating transmission is a serious problem that should be checked out by a mechanic as soon as possible. The most common causes of a vibrating transmission are a worn-out transmission mount, a damaged driveshaft, incorrect transmission fluid level, torque converter problems, and differential problems. By following the solutions outlined in this article, you can stop the vibration and prevent further damage to the transmission.