Nobody likes to face the prospect of auto repairs, especially those dealing with that mysterious--and expensive--component known as the transmission. In order to forestall more costly damage, it pays to be able to recognize a struggling transmission. This article will outline three signs that your transmission needs to get checked out by a pro.
Transmission Slip
Many people have experienced this phenomenon without realizing it: when the gas pedal is depressed, the car doesn't speed up at all, though the RPM gauge registers an increase. Known as transmission slip, this is caused by the transmission suddenly and silently coming out of gear. This is more than just an annoyance; it represents a genuine safety threat as well.
Transmission slip can manifest in other ways, as well. It may cause your car to accelerate in a noticeably sluggish manner. Likewise, you may detect a slight pause between depressing the gas and the car accelerating. If you have experienced any of these symptoms, it is important that you get your car inspected by a transmission specialist.
Burning Smell
A burning smell inside of the car is never a good sign. Though it may indicate an oil leak, such an odor may also be related to an overheating transmission. When this happens, the transmission fluid can catch on fire. This problem is exacerbated when the level of transmission fluid dips too low--often as the result of a leak.
The natural tendency here is to simply add more transmission fluid. But, depending on how badly burned the current fluid is, it may need to be removed before adding fresh fluid. Otherwise the burned fluid will contaminate the fresh.
Check the state of your fluid by turning off your car and letting the engine cool completely. Then pull out the transmission dipstick and take a look at the color of the fluid on it. Bad fluid will appear brown or black, depending on the severity of the burn. Fresh fluid, on the other hand, is bright red and somewhat translucent.
Mysterious Rattling, Jarring and Shaking
Many symptoms, such as those discussed above, point directly to a faulty transmission. But there are also a multitude of more subtle signs and indications. Where those are concerned, it is important to trust your instincts as the person who spends the most time observing your car. Take note of any odd behaviors or sounds, and don't hesitate to describe them to your mechanic, who may well recognize them as indications of immanent transmission trouble.
For more information about this and other car subjects, contact a professional like Pro Transmission.
Share11 June 2015
Hello. My name’s Samuel Jacobs. I retired from my job as an auto mechanic last year. During my years as a mechanic, I had the opportunity to meet people from all walks of life. Some have remained friends to this day. When I was working, there is one thing that I came across at least weekly. That is how uneducated people are when it comes to their vehicle’s tires. Properly cared for tires are crucial to the safety of your vehicle. Without them, your car isn’t going anywhere. If they give out on you while you are driving, there is the potential for serious injury. I’m going to share some tire safety information here. Things like the importance of correct inflation, how to check the tread, when to replace tires, tire rotation, and what to do in case of a blow-out. I hope you find this information to be helpful.