As with many things in life, identifying transmission problems early on can save you a lot of trouble in the long run. But just how do you identify transmission problems? This article will help you with that.
Some drivers don’t pick up on the subtle signs of a possible transmission problem and these problems can grow and become big problems before they notice it. Other drivers, often new drivers or owners of new vehicles, are worried that every noise, bump, and unanticipated movement is a sign that their transmission is about to explode. How can you learn to be more in-tune with your transmission’s wellbeing and identify potential transmission problems?
Sometimes your transmission will tell you there is a problem. Don’t ignore noises such as unusual humming or whirring. If your vehicle starts to make such noises—or, even worse, clunking—it could be because your transmission has a problem. Just what that problem is will be impossible to identify just by listening, but at least you’ll know to bring your vehicle into a transmission shop for inspection. One thing to note, however: if you’ve recently purchased a vehicle with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and are not used to these new types of transmissions, don’t freak out over every sound. CVTs tend to make a different sound that drivers unfamiliar with them find distressing, but which are actually perfectly normal.
Sometimes you can feel a transmission problem. If your transmission offers resistance or grinds when you change gears, you have a problem. A common culprit here is insufficient transmission fluid. Top up your fluid levels and while you’re at it, check the fluid. If the fluid isn’t clear with a red tint and largely odourless, or if the grinding persists, then you’ll have to bring it into a transmission shop to identify the cause of the problem. If your transmission slips into neutral shortly after shifting gears, the cause could be a worn-out band or other friction surfaces. These are relatively easy to replace, but it requires a technician getting into your transmission to check it out. The clutch or solenoid pack could also be a culprit and these parts need replacing at higher rates than others.
At Mister Transmission, we are experts at identifying transmission problems. Our Multi-Check Inspection is excellent at determining if your transmission has a problem and locating the cause of the problem. We also have on-board diagnostic equipment to determine if there is a problem with your vehicle’s on-board computer. To learn more about our transmission services, please contact us.
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