Early detection is key to saving money and preventing more severe damage to your vehicle. Learn to recognize the warning signs of transmission trouble, and visit an auto repair shop as soon as possible if you experience any of these telltale signals.
Transmission Failure: 10 Warning Signs
- Refusal To Switch Gears
Your transmission system may be causing your vehicle to refuse or struggle to shift gears. This is usually caused by low transmission fluid or the wrong type of transmission fluid. - Burning Smell
If you smell a burning sensation in your car, Visit an auto shop immediately this is a sign that your transmission is overheating. This is often a sign that your transmission is burning or overheating. - Neutral Noises
Transmission trouble is obvious if your vehicle makes strange or unusual noises when it is in neutral. The noises could be a sign that your vehicle needs new transmission oil. - Slipping Gears
It’s alarming and scary to see your gears slip out of their place while driving. This scenario can also be dangerous on the road. Your auto mechanic should inspect your gears if they start to slip. - Dragging Clutch
If you press the clutch pedal, a dragging clutch will not release the clutch disk from your vehicle’s flywheel. - Leaking Fluid
Transmission fluid leakage is the most common problem with transmissions. You should let your mechanic know if you find a sweet-smelling, red fluid under your car. - Check engine light
An illuminated check engine light on your dashboard could indicate many car problems. Both minor and major. However, it is important to have a technician visit the area to determine the cause of the problem. - Grinding or Shaking
A grinding or shaking sound that occurs during gear changes is more common in cars with an automatic transmission. This can be a sign that your transmission is having problems. - Humming Sounds
You don’t want your car to make humming, whining or clunking sounds. Have a mechanic inspect your car. - Unresponsive
It is most likely a problem with the transmission if your car won’t respond to your attempts to shift gears, especially from park to drive.