Does a Car Shake When the Transmission is Going Out?
A car shaking when the transmission is going out is a common symptom of a problem with this important part of your vehicle. The transmission is responsible for transferring power from the engine to the wheels, and when it’s not working properly, it can cause a number of problems, including shaking.
Causes of Transmission Shaking
There are a number of things that can cause a car to shake when the transmission is going out. Some of the most common causes include:
- Worn or damaged gears: When the gears in the transmission are worn or damaged, they can cause the car to shake when they’re engaged. This is because the gears are not able to mesh together properly, which can cause the transmission to slip and the car to shake.
- Low transmission fluid: When the transmission fluid is low, it can cause the transmission to overheat and the gears to wear out more quickly. This can lead to shaking, as well as other problems such as slipping gears and difficulty shifting.
- Faulty torque converter: The torque converter is responsible for transferring power from the engine to the transmission. When the torque converter is faulty, it can cause the car to shake, especially when accelerating or decelerating.
Symptoms of a Failing Transmission
In addition to shaking, there are a number of other symptoms that can indicate that your transmission is going out. These symptoms include:
- Slipping gears: When the transmission is slipping gears, it means that the gears are not engaging properly. This can cause the car to jerk or hesitate when accelerating or shifting gears.
- Difficulty shifting gears: If you’re having difficulty shifting gears, it could be a sign that the transmission is not working properly. This can be caused by a number of problems, including worn gears, low transmission fluid, or a faulty torque converter.
- Leaking transmission fluid: If you notice a leak under your car, it could be a sign that the transmission is leaking fluid. This is a serious problem that can lead to transmission failure if it’s not fixed.
- Burning smell: If you smell a burning smell coming from your car, it could be a sign that the transmission is overheating. This is a serious problem that can lead to transmission failure if it’s not fixed.
What to Do If Your Car is Shaking
If your car is shaking, it’s important to have it checked out by a mechanic as soon as possible. The mechanic will be able to diagnose the problem and recommend the best course of action. In some cases, the transmission may need to be repaired or replaced.
Preventing Transmission Problems
There are a number of things you can do to help prevent transmission problems, including:
- Regularly check the transmission fluid: The transmission fluid should be checked regularly and topped off as needed. This will help to keep the transmission running smoothly and prevent it from overheating.
- Avoid overloading your car: When you overload your car, it puts extra stress on the transmission. This can lead to premature wear and tear, and eventually, transmission failure.
- Drive smoothly: When you drive smoothly, you’re less likely to put stress on the transmission. This means avoiding sudden stops and starts, and shifting gears smoothly.
Conclusion
A car shaking when the transmission is going out is a common symptom of a problem with this important part of your vehicle. If you’re experiencing this symptom, it’s important to have your car checked out by a mechanic as soon as possible. The mechanic will be able to diagnose the problem and recommend the best course of action.
