The transmission is one of the most important and expensive parts of a car. When it begins to fail, it gives some warning. But first, let’s understand what the transmission does before learning the warning signs.
Simply put, it transfers power from the engine to the wheels. It also facilitates gear changes.
There are two kinds of transmission systems:
- Automatic: This happens automatically.
- Manual: The driver must operate the clutch and the gear shifter.
In either case, when the transmission fails, the car will stop functioning. In severe cases, the vehicle becomes unsafe to operate.
Do not ignore these signs!
Slipping gears
This is an early, common indicator of transmission issues. It occurs when:
- The car shifts in and out of gear while driving
- It cannot maintain the set gear.
Some common indicators are when:
- The engine revs up more than normal for a given speed
- The engine loses power briefly in the middle of the acceleration.
It mostly happens when you put off transmission maintenance. It’s one of the most obvious signs that internal parts are worn. This means that the transmission is due for professional attention right away.
Fluid leaks/fluid condition
The fluid is the lifeblood of the transmission system. Here is what it does:
- It oils the moving parts
- It cools the transmission
- It provides hydraulic pressure for automated gear changes.
Notice red fluid under your car? Especially after parking? That means the transmission fluid is leaking.
If your vehicle is fitted with a dipstick, use it to check the fluid level. Also, note its color and smell. A good transmission fluid should be bright red. It has a mild sweet odor. Something is wrong if the fluid is:
- Dark brown
- Black
- Has a burnt odor.
This means that:
- The fluid may have already broken down.
- The transmission system is already damaged internally.
At this point, you should seek Car Repair Virginia Beach VA immediately.
Rough or delayed shifting
An unproblematic transmission shifts easily. It is almost silent. However, something is wrong when shifting becomes:
- Rough
- Jerky
- Accompanied by a noticeable thud.
It can also manifest as a lag time between:
- Pressing the drive or reverse button
- The car actually moving.
This reluctance is a warning.
In automatic systems, it could mean:
- Low fluid or poor quality of lubricator
- Internal parts are damaged.
In manual ones, it can indicate:
- Problems with the clutch
- The synchronizer is worn out.
Experiencing rough or delayed shifting across multiple drives? Do not ignore it. Have a professional mechanic inspect the car immediately.
Unusual noises
A failing transmission usually produces a noise:
- Whining
- Humming
- Clunking
- Buzzing.
These noises might vary. This depends on the gear the car is in.
A “clunk” sound while shifting gears is especially worrisome. It could mean that there is a problem in the gears themselves. Not just a leak. Have the transmission inspected first if your car:
- Emits sounds that it does not usually make
- They come from under the vehicle
- They change with gear changes.
The check engine light
Many drivers ignore the check engine light. They assume that it’s some minor sensor problem. In actual fact, all modern cars have sensors in the transmission. It can alert the driver of irregularities well before they can notice them.
Notice a check engine light combined with any of the other symptoms on this list? Take it seriously. Have the car diagnosed immediately by a qualified mechanic. Otherwise, the cost of the issue only increases over time.
What will be the repair costs?
Transmission repair costs at the London Bridge Auto and Transmission Repair Shop Virginia Beach vary significantly depending on:
- The nature of the problem
- The make and model of the vehicle
- Whether a repair or full replacement is needed.
Minor problems can cost between a few $100 and about $1000 dollars. For example:
- Fixing a fluid leak
- Replacing a solenoid
- Servicing the fluid and filter.
An internal rebuild can cost anywhere between $1500 and $4000, depending on how extensive the work is.
A full transmission replacement (either new or remanufactured) is the most costly option. It ranges from $3000-8000 or higher for luxury or performance vehicles. Remember that the earlier it can be done, the less expensive the repair bill.
A small unaddressed problem can turn into a large internal failure. If the fluid service has been deferred too long, the components will wear out, and a rebuild becomes necesssary.
The takeaway
If the problem is not serious, your transmission will let you know what is amiss well before it breaks. If you notice any of these issues, it is serious. In most cases, correcting these warning signs in time is a small price to pay compared to the cost of replacing a transmission.
If you see any of the following issues, take your car to a qualified mechanic as quickly as you can. The longer you wait, the more expensive it will be.