Automatic transmissions have become standard in today’s automobile manufacturing. Most people prefer driving automatics because they’re easier to operate. You don’t have to worry about anything when it comes to gear-shifting except putting your automobile into park, reverse, neutral, or drive. The transmission does everything else. These systems are amazing, but they aren’t bulletproof. Ideal Automotive shares six common problems we repair in automatic transmissions.
Shaky or Grinding Gear Shifts
As transmission parts wear down, they will grind and/or your vehicle will shake as it shifts gears. This is a sign that gets worse with time, so it’s important to have the transmission inspected sooner rather than later when the gear-shifts are not smooth. This can be caused by worn gears or low transmission fluid.
Unresponsive Automobile
Your vehicle should always go into whichever gear you select on the gear shift. There shouldn’t be hesitation or a refusal to go into drive or reverse, for example. If there is, you might have a transmission fluid problem, an onboard computer problem, or an issue with the transmission’s internal gears.
Noise When in Neutral
Another common problem with automatic transmissions is noise when your automobile is in neutral. The noise could be clunks, hums, or whines. These sounds indicate a transmission part or parts wearing out or low, oxidized, or inadequate transmission fluid. Regular fluid changes help prevent this problem.
Burning Smells
We cannot stress enough that your vehicle should never smell as if it is burning. If you smell burning from the engine and suspect it’s the transmission, it’s possible your transmission fluid is low or overheating. Burning smells signal danger, so stop driving your car and have it towed to an auto shop.
Slipping Gears
Slipping gears can also be a dangerous problem, especially if you’re driving up a steep hill. Once the computer tells your automatic transmission to shift into a gear, it should stay in that gear until the next shift. If it doesn’t, your transmission is failing, and driving your vehicle is no longer safe.
Leaking/Low Transmission Fluid
Finally, transmission fluid is encased in the transmission and it should never be low. If it is low, there is possibly a fluid leak or something else wrong with the transmission. We hate to say it, but leaking or low transmission fluid is usually a sign of something serious. It indicates a breakdown in the system.
Ideal Automotive in Blaine, MN, maintains and repairs automatic transmissions. Call us today to schedule an appointment.
