6 Transmission Problem Signs

January 7, 2022 | By Mister Transmission

6 Transmission Problem Signs

If you have transmission problems, what are the signs? How can you know? Here are six transmission problem signs that might indicate a repair is required.

1. If Your Transmission Slips Out Gear, That’s A Transmission Problem Sign.

If you’re driving along and all of sudden, your vehicle goes into a different gear on its own, this is a problem. This typically happens just after you shift from drive to reverse or vice versa and the transmission slips into neutral. This is a pretty clear sign of a transmission problem, so don’t delay bringing your vehicle in for inspection. A slipping transmission is annoying, disconcerting, and dangerous.

2. If You Find It Difficult To Change Gears, You Might Have A Transmission Problem.

Transmissions slipping in and out of gear is a problem, but so is the opposite. If you experience a lot of resistance when you try to change gears, something is wrong within your transmission. You shouldn’t have to force a gear change and you shouldn’t experience grinding when you do.

3. If You Notice A Reddish Liquid Underneath Your Vehicle.

A lack of transmission fluid can cause just about any transmission problem there is. That’s why you should check your fluid levels monthly and top it up when necessary. If you’re topping it up every month, though, something is wrong. Check for patches of reddish liquid under your parked vehicle. If you have a leak, you should get it resealed immediately.

4. Transmission Fluid Is Often A Clear Indicator Of Transmission Problems.

Quality of transmission fluid is also key. It should be largely translucent with a red tinge. Opaque transmission fluid and/or foul-smelling fluid are bad signs.

5. Transmission Problem Signs Could Be Transmission Problem Sounds.

Sometimes you can hear your transmission experiencing problems. Problem transmissions often make funny noises. If you hear odd whirring or clunking noises, something could be wrong. One caveat, though, if you’re new to driving a CVT vehicle, please note that these transmissions do make different sounds.

6. Is Your Check Engine Light On?

Too many drivers ignore their check engine light. Please do not do this. The check engine light indicates you have a problem somewhere, if not in your transmission, then possibly in your engine.

Mister Transmission Can Diagnose Your Transmission Problem Signs.

If you’ve been noticing any of these transmission problem signs, bring your vehicle into Mister Transmission so our technicians can have a look. We can perform a broad number of transmission maintenance and repair services on automatic transmissions, manual transmissions, and CVT transmissions. To learn more, please contact us. We’re also happy to state that we have a comprehensive COVID-19 policy to keep everybody safe.

Mister Transmission Team

The Mister Transmission team consists of certified transmission specialists with decades of combined experience in diagnosing, repairing, and maintaining automatic and manual transmissions.

With over 60 years of service across Canada, our experts provide trusted, accurate, and up-to-date automotive advice to help drivers make informed decisions about their vehicles.

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Customer Reviews
Amazing experience with the team...
Connor Middaugh
Amazing experience with the team over at Mr. transmission. Honest and hardworking people. We’re able to resolve the issue with my car in a timely manner with consistent updates. Shoutout to Julie, A+ Customer Service.
Date: June 12, 2026
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Awesome experience dealing with Mister...
Daniel Stars
Awesome experience dealing with Mister Transmission. Had my problem fixed the same day I called.
Date: June 12, 2026
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A few weeks ago I...
Ed Jaworski
A few weeks ago I started having slipping issues with the tyranny on my 15 y/o Charger w 270,000 kms on it. Stopped in without an appointment and they professionally diagnosed the problem quickly. They recommended a new hose and tcm plate. When I told Aki the car also needed tires and front end work and I didn't want to put a lot of money into the car, he didn't push to replace the parts, didn't try to scare me into having work done immediately. He understood what I said and they cleaned the plate, did a tyranny service, fixed the leak, and got me back on the road in good time at a reasonable cost. No problems since. The whole team from the front desk, to the guys in the shop were also very professional. That's why I'll always go to Mr Transmission Dixie Rd when I have transmission issues in the future and I recommend them to anyone e lse. Thanks guys!
Date: June 12, 2026
Website: Google
I highly recommend this place,...
Nalini Naipaul
I highly recommend this place, professional expertise with excellent customer service and reasonable pricing. Amazing overall experience, great team.
Date: June 12, 2026
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Helpful and Frienfly
Bb123200501
Helpful and Frienfly
Date: June 12, 2026
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Garry is the best saved...
YELRAM NAEJ
Garry is the best saved my car and he is extremely efficient
Date: June 12, 2026
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The staff and service was...
Myles Poff
The staff and service was excellent. Price was reasonable and the timeline was quick and exceeded my expectations. I would recommend Mr. Transmission.
Date: June 12, 2026
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Friendly service, I felt like...
Amran Mirza
Friendly service, I felt like I’m with good people who you can trust! Specially, Luke and others. Thank you guys.
Date: June 12, 2026
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I brought my Honda Ridgeline...
Richard Mehedan
I brought my Honda Ridgeline here with an intermittent shift problem and the owner took it for a long test drive, where of course the transmission shifted as normal. He did not charge me for that test and asked me to come back when the codes came on. Based on the fact he did not charge me ensures that I will bring it back when it faults again
Date: June 12, 2026
Website: Google
I have a 2016 nissan...
Bradley Hunter
I have a 2016 nissan rogue and its transmission had issues they fixed it fast and at a amazing price 10/10 Definitely recommend
Date: June 12, 2026
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