Don’t let transmission trouble throw a wrench in your day. You can avoid more serious transmission repairs by paying attention to the signs and symptoms that your transmission may need attention from a professional mechanic. Some of the early signs are easy to push down your priority list, but it’s always a good idea to have your transmission inspected as soon as you notice any changes in performance.
If you’re having trouble with your transmission, you can trust the mechanics at your local AAMCO Minnesota transmission shop to get you safely and smoothly back on the road again.
Delays or Difficulty Shifting Gears
One of the earliest signs of transmission problems is difficulty shifting gears. While this often shows up in just one or a couple of gears initially, any difficulty or hesitation during gear shifts should tell you it’s time to get your car to a trusted mechanic to have the transmission inspected.
You May Notice Difficulty with Reverse or Lower Gears First
Most likely, this symptom will show up first around Reverse and lower gears if you drive a manual transmission vehicle. Automatic transmission vehicles are also likely to hesitate when shifting gears, which can indicate transmission slipping. A trusted mechanic will be able to diagnose just what your car’s transmission needs to run smoothly again.
You Hear Grinding or Clunking Sounds
Whether it’s an indication of transmission trouble or another car problem, grinding, clunking, and other strange sounds are never a good sign. Pay attention to when you notice these sounds and it can help point you and your mechanic in the right direction. If you hear grinding or clunking during gear shifts, it’s time to have your transmission inspected.
Grinding When Shifting Gears May Indicate Low Transmission Fluid
One likely cause behind grinding during gear shifts is low transmission fluid. There are two key roles your transmission fluid plays: lubricating moving parts and creating necessary pressure. If there isn’t enough transmission fluid to adequately lubricate moving parts, you may hear grinding due to metal parts rubbing against one another as they move. This not only increases wear on parts, it can also lead to an overheating transmission.
There’s a Burning Smell While Driving
When you’re sure that burning smell is coming from your car, it’s sure to set off alarm bells in your mind. It’s smart to always use caution when you smell burning while driving and one possible cause may be a transmission problem. If you have low transmission fluid, the increased friction in your transmission can lead to overheating, which can cause a burning smell while driving.
The Timing of a Burning Smell Can Help Point to the Needed Repair
As with many symptoms of car problems, timing is key. Pay attention to the timing of your car’s burning smell. If you notice it when shifting gears or at higher RPMs, a transmission repair may be needed to get your car running properly again.
Your Transmission Fluid is Low
It’s a good idea to keep an eye on all of your car’s fluids. Many modern cars allow you to check your transmission fluid with a dipstick much like the one you use to check your engine oil. Consult your owner’s manual to locate this dipstick. If you notice your transmission fluid is low or over-contaminated, you must schedule a transmission fluid replacement soon.
Transmission Fluid Leaks Should Be Diagnosed By a Trusted Mechanic
You may also notice signs of a fluid leak under your car. If this fluid leak appears to be under your car’s transmission, you may be dealing with a transmission fluid leak. This can easily grow into bigger problems with your car’s transmission, so you should have your mechanic inspect your transmission and diagnose any leaks as soon as possible.
Trust AAMCO Minnesota’s Mechanics with Your Next Transmission Repair
No matter what your car’s transmission needs, the mechanics at your local AAMCO are here to help. From regular maintenance like transmission fluid replacement services to more serious transmission repairs, we have you covered. Our transmission experts know their way around any type of transmission and can diagnose and repair any transmission problems. Give us a call today.