Knowing the possible signs of a potential vehicle problem can often be quite helpful in identifying the issue and minimizing its extent, and a great example here is your transmission. There are several possible signs that your transmission might be failing or on its way to failure, and knowing them can often help you address this issue before it becomes too costly or burdensome.
At Tip Top Transmissions, we’re here to offer a wide range of transmission services to clients around Salt Lake City, plus various other auto repair and auto mechanic needs of any kind. Here are some of the telltale signs that your transmission might be having issues and should be brought to our team for an evaluation and possible repairs or replacements.Â
Gear Shifting Issues
Depending on whether you drive a manual or automatic vehicle, there are different kinds of gear shifting problems that can arise. For manual transmissions, difficulty in shifting gears or staying in gear for the proper amount of time can be signs of transmission trouble. You may also notice grinding or shaking noises while shifting, which often indicates wear and tear on your transmission’s internal components.Â
For automatic transmissions, signs of trouble could include slipping gears, delayed engagement, or jerking movements while driving. All of these issues can be caused by a variety of transmission problems, such as low fluid levels, worn clutch plates, or damaged solenoids. If you notice any of these gear shifting issues, it’s best to bring your vehicle in for a professional diagnosis and repair.
Strange Noises
Unusual noises coming from your vehicle are always cause for concern, and this is especially true when it comes to your transmission. A properly functioning transmission should not make any loud or unusual noises during operation.Â
The most common problem sound from a transmission is a clunking noise, which can indicate several different issues. It could be a loose or worn out part, such as the input shaft, output shaft, or gears. Alternatively, it could also be caused by low fluid levels or damaged internal components.
Another concerning noise is a high-pitched whining sound, which often indicates a problem with the transmission’s pump or other internal parts. If you hear any strange noises coming from your vehicle while driving, it’s best to get it checked out by our team of experienced technicians.
Burning Smell
If you notice an unusual burning smell coming from your vehicle while driving, this could also be a sign of a transmission problem. This could be caused by overheating, which can occur due to low fluid levels or an issue with the transmission’s cooling system.
Ignoring this burning smell could lead to serious damage to your vehicle’s transmission, so it’s best to bring it in for immediate inspection and repairs if you notice this sign.
Check Engine Light
Of course, one of the most obvious signs of any vehicle trouble is the check engine light. While this light can indicate a variety of issues, it’s important not to ignore it when it comes on. If your vehicle’s computer detects an issue with your transmission, it will often trigger the check engine light.
If you see this warning light on your dashboard, it’s best to bring your vehicle in for diagnostics and repairs as soon as possible. Our team at Tip Top Transmissions has the necessary tools and expertise to identify and resolve any transmission problems indicated by the check engine light.
Leaking Fluids
In some cases, you may notice reddish fluid leaking from your vehicle, which could be transmission fluid. This is a clear sign that there’s an issue with your transmission and should be addressed immediately.
Leaking transmission fluid can lead to low levels of this vital lubricant, causing damage to the internal components of your transmission. It’s best to bring your vehicle in for inspection and repairs if you notice any fluids leaking from your car.
Noise During Neutral
While we already discussed general noises that could indicate transmission problems, a specific issue to watch out for is any noise while your vehicle is in neutral. If you hear unusual sounds coming from your car while the gearshift is in neutral, this could be a sign of a damaged or worn-out bearing.
Ignoring these sounds can lead to further damage and costly repairs down the line. It’s best to bring your vehicle in for inspection if you notice any noises during neutral.
There are several signs that your vehicle’s transmission may be experiencing issues, including gear shifting problems, strange noises, burning smells, the check engine light, leaking fluids, and noise during neutral.Â
It’s important to pay attention to these signs and bring your vehicle to our team at Tip Top Transmissions for professional diagnosis and repairs as soon as possible. Ignoring these signs could lead to more significant issues and higher repair costs, so don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any concerns about your transmission’s health. We’re here to provide reliable and efficient transmission services that will keep your vehicle running smoothly on the roads of Salt Lake City and beyond. Contact us today!