Most transmission problems are caused by low or degraded transmission fluid. If you experience any of the symptoms below, always check your transmission fluid first. A technician at your local Chevrolet service department can top the fluid up or diagnose and repair any more serious underlying transmission problems for you. Here are ten common signs that a car needs prompt transmission repair.
Burning Smell
When transmission fluid becomes too old and starts to degrade, it gradually loses its lubricating qualities. This causes friction and heat to rise inside the transmission. The increasing heat can start to burn the transmission fluid, which you may smell from inside the cabin.
Puddling Fluid
If your transmission fluid leaks, you may see a puddle of reddish liquid under your car when parked. Leaks can stem from the transmission pan, gasket, drain plug, seals, or fluid lines. It’s important to have a leak fixed promptly before the transmission overheats.
Grinding Sounds
If you hear consistent grinding sounds when shifting, your transmission needs to be checked. If the fluid isn’t low, grinding could be caused by problems with the gear system or torque converter.
Whining Sounds
Automatic transmissions may emit a whining sound when there’s a problem. Whining might be caused by a clogged fluid line or filter, or any number of other mechanical or electrical issues.
Noises in Neutral
When transmission fluid gets too low or the wrong type of fluid is used, you may hear banging noises from the transmission when in neutral. A technician will need to top up or flush your fluid to resolve it.
Slipping Gears
One of the more disconcerting transmission problems is slipping gears. If your car ever changes gears on its own or pops into neutral while you’re driving, you should have it repaired right away. Slipping gears may point to damaged gears, a faulty sensor, a torque converter malfunction, or something else.
Delayed Shifting
Various mechanical, hydraulic, or electrical gearbox problems may result in delayed or hesitant shifting. At its worst, your gears may refuse to shift at all.
Dragging Clutch
In manual transmission vehicles, the clutch needs to engage and disengage the flywheel smoothly. If your clutch ever fails to disengage fully, you have a dragging clutch, and you’ll struggle to shift gears until it’s repaired.
Flush Fluid Frequently at Your Chevrolet Dealer
Keeping your transmission fluid fresh will stave off most gearbox problems. You should have transmission fluid flushed every 60,000 to 100,000 miles with an automatic transmission and every 30,000 to 60,000 miles with a manual transmission. To know the optimal interval for your particular model, check your owner’s manual and also ask the professionals at your local dealership.
Visit Allen Tillery Auto today to have your transmission trouble promptly repaired by experienced technicians. We’ve been delivering top-notch vehicles and treating our customers like family with excellent deals and vehicle servicing since 1967.
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