Skip to Main Content

Warning Signs Your Car Has Transmission Issues

Just as with your personal well-being, early detection of trouble with your vehicle can prevent more serious issues and save you money in the long run. This rule especially applies to your vehicle's transmission. When diagnosed early, many potential transmission problems can be remedied easily and inexpensively. But, wait too long, and you may be facing major repairs. Fortunately, most transmissions give off early warning signs - some obvious, and some subtle - to help you get in front of the trouble before things get out of hand. Here are the top ten such telltale signs that your transmission needs service at your earliest possible convenience.
Service tools
Your Vehicle Will Not Change Gears

If your car, truck, or SUV struggles or flat out refuses to change gears, the problem almost certainly lies within its transmission system. Often, it’s a simple matter of a low level of transmission fluid. While it is less likely, it is also possible that someone added the wrong type of transmission fluid.

The Transmission Slips In and Out of Gear

If your car’s transmission seems to be struggling to move into the next gear, or it slips back to a lower gear too quickly, you will want to have it looked at as soon as possible. Although low levels of, or burnt transmission fluid are the two most common causes of transmission slippage, it may also be a faulty torque converter, worn transmission bands, or faulty shift solenoids creating the problem. Typically, these types of repairs will not break the bank if caught early.

You Notice a Burning Smell

Extra friction created from worn or damaged gears may cause them to overheat and burn your vehicle’s transmission oil. In general, an automatic transmission’s fluid should be clear or bright red and have a hint of a sweet smell. Transmission fluid leaking onto the engine could also lead to a burning odor. At any rate, visit an auto repair shop right away if you notice a burning smell coming from anywhere in your car.

Strange Noises Coming from the Transmission While Your Vehicle is in Neutral

Unusual humming, whining, or clunking noise coming from your vehicle when it's in neutral is a sure sign of transmission trouble. If you are lucky, the noise is telling you that your car is ready for a transmission oil change. If you are not so lucky, the odd sounds might be calling out for mechanical repair. Either way, don’t ignore any unusual sounds emanating from your car’s transmission. The problem may be small now but can turn into a major headache later if ignored.

A Sweet-Smelling, Red Fluid On the Ground Underneath Your Vehicle

A transmission fluid leak is one of the simplest problems to pin out. If you notice a sweet-smelling, red-colored fluid underneath your car, it is probably leaking transmission fluid. Correcting this problem could be something as minor as replacing a pan gasket or a pressure hose. Left unchecked, however, low levels of fluid will eventually cause the transmission to overheat and lead to much larger problems.

The Check Engine Light Comes On

An illuminated check engine light on your dashboard can indicate a wide range of engine problems, sometimes minor, and other times more serious. Transmission problems can trigger the check-engine lights, as well. If you notice any of the previously mentioned symptoms, the check engine light could be pointing to a transmission issue. Be sure to have your mechanic take a look at your earliest possible convenience

You Notice the Car Vibrating or Shaking As It Changes Gears

Grinding, slipping, or shaking sensations are a sure sign that your vehicle is having trouble changing gears. These sensations may be subtle at first and get progressively worse if left unattended. Your car’s transmission may have one or more damaged gears.

Many transmission problems start small and grow with time. Ignoring symptoms like those listed above often leads to costly repairs. Stop in at Gerry Lane Cadillac and let our team of expert technicians diagnose and repair your vehicle’s transmission problem - or any other issue your car might have - quickly and inexpensively. P.S. don’t forget to check out our service specials for great deals on tires, oil changes, brake service, and more.