The transmission is one of the most important parts of a vehicle. Apart from the engine, it’s actually one of the parts that make a car move, transferring power from the engine to the wheels. Unfortunately, since it’s almost always in use, the transmission is also one of the parts of a car that commonly gives up if not maintained properly. An abused transmission can cause several problems, like poor mileage, slow acceleration, shift shock, and the like.
With proper maintenance and careful driving, though, your car’s transmission will stay in tip top shape. You cannot avoid instances when your transmission is already giving out, though. Here are a few ways how to check for transmission problems.
Listen for noises. When a car is running smoothly, there should be no strange noises coming from the engine bay. When you hear grinding noises while you’re accelerating, then something’s wrong with the transmission. When you hear clicking noises when the transmission shifts, then gears might not be engaging properly. These could likely also be caused by dirty, old or inadequate transmission fluid.
Feel the pull. Another sign of transmission problems is when your car is no longer able to accelerate or pull as fast as it should. If you feel that the engine is revving too high, but the wheels are not responding as quickly, then your gears might be slipping. This is often evident when you are going uphill, or during overtaking. If there is a vibrating noise when you try to overtake, then most probably your gears are no longer engaging properly.
Watch out for shift shock. Most new automatic transmission vehicles shift smoothly, that passengers don’t even feel the difference when shifting from one gear to another. However, when the car is jerking forward whenever the car upshifts or downshifts, then that’s a sign of shift shock. This means that something is wrong with the timing of the automatic transmission system.
Watch out for leaks. Transmission fluid is essential to the life of your car’s transmission box. Without this, your gears will overheat. It’s always a good idea to check for leaks underneath the car before starting with your everyday commute. Oil leaks are a telltale sign that you have either a brittle oil gasket, problematic oil filter, or other oil-related issues.
The best way to deal with potential transmission problems is to maintain a regular check-up of your car’s transmission, including transmission fluids. Just stick to your manufacturer’s schedule for preventive maintenance service, and you should be fine. Transmission problems in your car must be addressed as soon as they emerge. This will save you from possible disturbances during your everyday driving. While you’re on the road, don’t just keep your eyes on the road. You should also be mindful of the sounds that your engine emits.
The moment you hear or feel something different, then you better make an appointment with the garage or service center. Fixing your transmission might involve just a simple change of gear oil. However, in worse case scenarios, the transmission would have to be overhauled and rebuilt, particularly if gears are already worn out.
