If you think there’s an issue with your transmission, but you’re not sure what it might be, our team at Collision 24 has you covered. For our drivers in Brockton, Randolph, and Stoughton, keep reading to find out some of the most common transmission problems and how you can prevent them in the future.
Low or Leaking Transmission Fluid
When your transmission fluid is leaking, it affects many different areas of your transmission and can lead to bigger problems. Transmission fluid is vital in lubricating the transmission system, diffusing heat, and providing hydraulic pressure.
How does this happen? If you have a low fluid reading, it may be an indicator that there’s a leak somewhere in the transmission. This can occur if parts come loose or if there’s damage somewhere in the system.
How to prevent it: Look under your vehicle for any signs of a transmission leak. If the fluid is clean, it’ll be red in color and have a sweet odor to it. If the fluid is damaged, the color will appear darker and may smell burnt.
Clutch Issues
Having issues with your clutch can be another sign of a transmission problem. If you have a manual transmission, the engine power is disconnected from the transmission when the clutch is engaged in order to change gears. So, if the clutch isn’t working normally, changing gears will be harder than usual.
How does this happen? When the clutch is used normally, it will wear down over time. However, if the clutch has been shifted carelessly, it can wear down even quicker.
How to prevent it: If you find your RPMs are rising quicker without acceleration, this could mean your clutch is going. Unhealthy noises may occur while switching gears, too, if the clutch is damaged.
Overheated Transmission
When something works overtime, it tends to produce excess heat—your transmission is no different. It needs to maintain a normal temperature and stay lubricated to keep working properly. If your transmission overheats, it could mean there are problems with other parts of the vehicle, as well.
How does this happen? If there’s not enough transmission fluid going to the system, it can cause the transmission to overheat. Lubrication reduces heat caused when the parts of the system rub against each other. If you have either no transmission fluid, or even the wrong type of fluid, this problem can occur.
How to prevent it: Odd noises coming from the transmission system or a burning smell are red flags that your transmission is overheating. If this is happening, bring your vehicle to your auto technician immediately.
Are You Having a Common Transmission Problem?
If any of these indicators are what you’re experiencing with your transmission, you’ll want to have your vehicle looked at by an experienced auto technician. Contact our service center at Collision 24, and we’ll be happy to take a look and make sure your transmission is in top-notch shape. Contact us at any time to schedule an appointment!