How do I know If I Have a Transmission Problem?

July 28, 2018 | By Mister Transmission

How do I know If I Have a Transmission Problem?

Have you noticed patches of reddish clear fluid on your driveway after you pull out in the morning? Have you felt odd clicking or grinding sensations coming from your vehicle when you change gears? Have you heard weird whirring noises when you change gears? Or does your vehicle just decide to change gears on its own and you slip out of gear? If so, then it is likely that you have a transmission-related problem with your vehicle. But before you get too worked up, let’s try to figure out just how bad your transmission problem is.

Transmission Fluid

The first thing you should do if you think you have a transmission problem is check your transmission fluid, as insufficient levels or poor quality of transmission fluid can cause more damage to your vehicle and transmission. Transmission fluid is the lifeblood of your transmission. It keeps everything well lubricated and running smoothly – it is so important to have this checked if you are sensing you have transmission related issue.

Checking your transmission fluid is easily done. You can bring it in to Mister Transmission and we’ll do it for you quick, or you can do it yourself if you feel comfortable doing so. You want to check both the level of fluid and its quality. The fluid should be transparent with a reddish tint to it. If it is opaque or smells unpleasant, the fluid is degraded and should be flushed out and replaced.

Transmission Leaks

Topping up or replacing your transmission fluid could be all the fix you need for your transmission problem. However, problems with the fluid are often a symptom of a larger problem. For example, let’s say you top up your fluid but then two weeks later, your transmission problems reemerge. You check your fluid levels once again and are aghast to discover the fluid level has dropped once again.

In such a case, you have a fluid leak. With leaks, you will probably notice patches of transmission fluid on the pavement under where you parked your car. Leaks can be a minor transmission problem…or a big one. It depends on the size of the leak. A total reseal is obviously a much bigger job than a smaller, isolated area that needs resealing. But as far as transmission problems go, it could always be worse.

Wear and Tear

If your transmission fluid is foul smelling and opaque, your transmission problem might be caused by normal wear and tear. This would require an inspection to diagnose. Sometimes it’s as simple as replacing one or two accessible parts that have worn down and impacted the transmission fluid. Sometimes, it’s a bigger problem, and a more extensive repair job is required. To be sure, please bring your vehicle to your nearest Mister Transmission and we will be happy to complete a free multi-check to properly diagnose your vehicle.

Computer Problems

Nowadays, many transmission problems are, effectively, computer problems. If your vehicle has a computer-controlled transmission that is not shifting properly, it is often the result of the onboard computer sending incorrect signals due to a faulty sensor, or the transmission is not reacting to the command because of a bad connection or defective solenoid pack. These are not necessarily big transmission problems, but it will require a visit to a transmission shop that has the special equipment required to interface with your vehicle’s computer.

Contact us

If your vehicle is experiencing what you think might be a transmission problem, please do not hesitate to contact us today.

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Customer Reviews
I took the car in...
Lance Lincoln
I took the car in because I had issues with my transmission, not only did they fix it but they fixed my lower control arm and adjusted my brakes, these are problems that were missed on the safety, Dan also dealt with my warranty company as well as made sure I had the financing to get my car back with no out of pocket funds, they worked late making sure I had the car on the day they said, thank you Dan and Bob for all your hard work.
Date: March 24, 2023
Website: Google
Great job on my transmission...
Alessandro Chiaravallo
Great job on my transmission and awesome customer's service... Thanks guys!
Date: March 24, 2023
Website: Google
very good and professional. I...
Tochukwu Ezeanochie
very good and professional. I will recommend them for everyone.
Date: March 24, 2023
Website: Google
Excellent service! Wes was professional,...
Lori Buckle
Excellent service! Wes was professional, considerate and easy to deal with. Would definitely recommend! A++++
Date: March 23, 2023
Website: Google
Great people, great service, you...
Mircea Manolescu
Great people, great service, you know they will take good care of your car, no matter the problem it has.
Date: March 22, 2023
Website: Google
My boyfriend had this on...
Stephanie Da
My boyfriend had this on going problem with his car that no other mechanic knew how to fix!! We brought it mister transmission and owner is an amazing person!! He figured out what was going on and had it fixed within a day! This a truly amazing place will be coming back here more times!
Date: March 22, 2023
Website: Google
I went there for the...
Charles Seward
I went there for the first time to fix my pickup truck. Had a great experience. Very friendly environment and well done. Price range very affordable. Definitely will return if I need service.
Date: March 22, 2023
Website: Google
Good guys, good communication.
Ron Ashley
Good guys, good communication.
Date: March 22, 2023
Website: Google
I recently had my car’s...
Eduardo Modesto
I recently had my car’s transmission serviced at this shop and I couldn’t be happier with the experience. The staff were knowledgeable and friendly, and they took the time to explain the issue and the repair process to me. The work was completed quickly and efficiently, and my car is now running smoothly. The price was fair and I feel confident in the quality of the work done. I would highly recommend this transmission shop to anyone in need of their services.
Date: March 21, 2023
Website: Google
Excelente customer service , fast...
Roberto Coello
Excelente customer service , fast afordable
Date: March 21, 2023
Website: Google
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