How Do You Know If Your Car Has Transmission Problems?

The transmission is a vital part of your car’s drivetrain, and when it’s not working properly, it can cause a variety of problems. If you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms, it’s important to have your car checked by a mechanic to rule out transmission problems.

Difficulty Shifting Gears

One of the most common signs of transmission problems is difficulty shifting gears. This can manifest itself in a number of ways, such as:

The gearshift may feel stiff or difficult to move.
The car may pop out of gear when you’re driving.
You may hear grinding or other noises when you shift gears.

Slipping Gears

If your car’s transmission is slipping, it means that the gears are not engaging properly. This can cause the car to lose power or jerk when you’re driving. Slipping gears can also lead to premature wear and tear on the transmission.

Delayed Engagement

Another sign of transmission problems is delayed engagement. This means that when you shift gears, there is a noticeable delay before the car actually starts moving. Delayed engagement can be caused by a number of factors, including low fluid levels, worn gears, or a faulty transmission control module.

Leaking Fluid

If you notice a leak coming from your car’s transmission, it’s important to have it checked out by a mechanic as soon as possible. Transmission fluid is essential for lubricating the gears and other moving parts of the transmission, and a leak can cause serious damage if it’s not repaired.

Burning Smell

If you smell a burning smell coming from your car, it could be a sign of a transmission problem. The burning smell is caused by the friction of metal against metal when the gears are not engaging properly. If you smell a burning smell, it’s important to stop driving and have your car towed to a mechanic.

Whining or Buzzing Noises

Whining or buzzing noises coming from the transmission can be a sign of worn gears or bearings. These noises are typically most noticeable when the car is in gear and under load. If you hear any unusual noises coming from your transmission, it’s important to have it checked out by a mechanic.

Check Engine Light

The check engine light can be triggered by a variety of problems, including transmission problems. If you see the check engine light come on, it’s important to have your car diagnosed by a mechanic to determine the cause.