Five Common Automatic Transmission Problems

Posted by axlerepaircenter on September 12th, 2019

No one wants to deal with a malfunctioning or defective transmission because it is not only expensive but also time-taking when it comes to repairing. While with a transmission beyond repair, the only best option is to replace it with specific or custom-built transmissions, keeping an eye on signs of transmission problems might help you save from costly repair or replacement. 

 Even if you are not an automobile expert, you can easily identify the following warning signs that could indicate issues with your automatic transmission. 

 Color and Condition of Transmission Fluid

The automatic transmission uses transmission fluid to operate the bands and clutches which are required to change the gears and for cooling and lubricating many parts of the transmission. Just like other things, transmission fluid doesn’t last forever. So, it is important to check your vehicle’s transmission fluid at least once a month. Checking on the condition of fluid tells a lot about the transmission’s condition and also helps in deciding if it needs to be changed. 

 New transmission fluid is a transparent pinkish red fluid while worn-out fluid is dark brown or black. Dirty or burnt fluid means that it needs to be replaced.  

 Low Fluid Levels

Sufficient amount of automatic transmission fluid (ATF) is necessary for smooth working and too little amount can result in severe complications such as slipping, shaking, shifting issues, overheating, and even failure. By using transmission dipstick, you can simply check the level of fluid. If the level is low, you should add the recommended ATF to your transmission. 

 But, sometimes, the low level of transmission fluid also indicates a leakage problem within your transmission. So, it is also best to check for leakages. 

 Leakage of Transmission Fluid

Leakage is, generally, the result of a gap that may be in your transmission. So, to find the leakage, you should check for seals, transmission lines, loose pans, and faulty gaskets. Replacing a faulty component will help in stopping the leakage. However, the difficulty to replace the component will vary. 

 Fluid leakage requires immediate attention. The longer you hold, the more fluid will leak and, consequently, it will eventually lead to problems commonly associated with low fluid levels. 

 Overheating

It is one of the worst things that could happen to your transmission and, therefore, you should try to prevent your transmission from overheating. It may result in malfunctioning of parts of the transmission and will also decrease its overall life. Changing ATF regularly is important because it is the lifeblood of your transmission. In fact, there would be no automatic transmission without transmission fluid as their functions are interdependent. Though it is hard to tell if your transmission is overheating, however, you can check the fluid because overheating is usually the result of inefficient fluid. So, look for any signs of low, dirty, or burnt fluid. 

 Transmission Slipping

When you step on the gas but find that you cannot accelerate or the engine revs, it means there is a problem of transmission slipping. It may be due to inefficient fluid, defective solenoids, worn gears or burnt clutch discs. If you experience transmission slipping firsthand, it is recommended to avoid driving as much as possible because slipping can lead to rapid clutch wear.  In this case, you will need to replace the old transmission with the new standard or custom-built transmission. 

 Watching out for transmission problem signs can help you save costly repairs. So, pay enough attention to your transmission regularly.