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Depending on the make and model of the car, a flashing check engine light usually means there is a more serious problem with the engine.

Transmission problems can cause the check engine light to come on as well, however it’s not always as apparent as other components within the vehicle. If there is a lack of response from your transmission, usually it is difficult for the vehicle owner to determine where the problem originated.

Indications of transmission problems could be unusual noises coming from underneath the vehicle, or a lack of response when the accelerator pedal is pressed. However these symptoms could also be indications of drivability problems.

If you step on the gas and your vehicle doesn’t seem to respond or want to go anywhere, there is a 50-50 chance that there is a drivability problem with the way the engine is running. This can result in a lack of engine power, or the transmission will not respond because there is a problem with it.

Mister Transmission locations have access to the proper computer equipment to properly diagnose any issues related to your engine, detailing any potential malfunctions. If there is a transmission issue, this equipment will be able to target where the problem originated, and then supply an error code to help identify the problem.

Potential Transmission Problems

Transmission slipping

If you step on throttle and the engine RPM increases, but the vehicle is not moving, this is an indication of your transmission slipping. The same can be said for when the vehicle is in neutral and the engine is revving, or when you are in gear, applying gas and the vehicle is either only edging forward or not moving at all.

Transmission running too hot

Your transmission needs to operate at an optimal temperature in order to function properly. In the event that your transmission is running too hot, you will sometimes be warned by certain indicators, such as a burning smell, or lack of performance from the vehicle. A burning smell may be caused by not having enough transmission fluid running through the system. The transmission may also be running too hot if the transmission’s cooling system is malfunctioning.

Low Fluid Levels

Make sure your transmission fluids are nicely topped up in order to keep your system well lubricated and working properly. Running out of transmission fluid can cause major damage to your transmission and all the connected components.

Solenoid regulation

If it appears that your fluids are all topped up, there may still be an issue with how the fluid is being distributed within the transmission and to the transmission components. This could mean that there is a problem with a solenoid, which regulates the flow of transmission fluid throughout the system. The solenoid directs oil flow to the correct components to perform the function of the transmission. If there are no evident transmission fluid leaks, a possible culprit could be a malfunctioning solenoid.

Difficulty Shifting Gears

Another warning sign of issues is when gears become difficult to shift or will not engage properly. Any of these issues, accompanied by your check engine light coming on, is grounds for concern. You certainly don’t want any of your transmission issues getting any worse.

If your check engine light comes on, and your transmission seems to be acting erratically, you need to take your vehicle into a specialist. All Mister Transmission locations are staffed by professionals with years of experience working with all kinds of transmission issues.

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