A problem in automatic transmission can be stressful while driving. Automatic transmission stopped working while driving which can make the driver’s experience worst. Also, the problem with automatic transmission minimizes the performance of the car. So, this is very important to know “how to diagnose automatic transmission problems” before they get a more expensive transmission replacement or repair.
If you know “what are the signs of automatic transmission problems?” such as the most common problem is low fluid then it’s very easy to resolve it on your own such as automatic transmission fluid change or fluid flush. But some transmission problems can be major like an automatic transmission shift cable problem or the problem in reverse gear then we suggest visiting an authorized car workshop.
As we know, automatic car transmission is a complex mechanical part that controls the power transfer between the driveshaft & engine. Also, we can easily shift the gear ratio with direct input given to the driver.
If you found automatic transmission problems symptoms, then resolve them on time. To keep this reason in mind here we are sharing what is the common problem of automatic transmission and How do you diagnose an automatic transmission problem?
Why does automatic transmission fail & how to resolve it?
The structure of automatic transmission is more critical & needs more attention & care to ensure long-lasting performance. Most people don’t know that automatic transmission replacement cost is higher as compared to the cost to replace a car engine. Due to this reason, you need to pay extra attention & care for the automatic transmission to avoid major repair costs of automatic transmission. Because of the complex mechanical architecture, the parts of the automatic transmission are more costly.
Here we discuss a few more common signs & problems in automatic transmission which you need to take seriously & diagnose these problems as soon as possible. That information also helps to reduce the priority of high maintenance costs or you can replace your bad automatic transmission and buy a remanufactured transmission or used transmission at low cost. Let’s have a look at the list of common car transmission problems & safety tips.
1. Grinding and shaking in gears
Normally the automatic transmission operates smoothly on shifting the gears. If you feel any grinding and shaking while changing the gears. Then these might be the symptoms that your transmission is starting to have problems. This is the best time to pay attention early. Because the transmission will likely become worse on use. If you already feel some shaking then it is time to get your transmission to the authorized car service center. Also, when automatic transmission get damaged you get the worse feel at the time of drive.
2. Burning Smell inside the transmission
If you observe any burning smell in your vehicle, you need to pay attention closely. This burning smell may come due to overheating. The low fuel level or wrong transmission fluid is one of the major reason that also closely affect car transmission. Transmission fluid has an important role in running an expensive and complex system. It keeps parts cool and lubricated so they can run properly and don’t get damaged or worn out. If transmission fluid breakdowns, then the vehicle’s lubricating ability is also decreased which leads to the vehicle part’s damage. Now It’s time to check your transmission’s fluid level or get a transmission specialist to see it. And also use the best car transmission fluid.
3. Refuses to respond or engage when in gear
While driving or reversing, if there is any kind of delay in moving the vehicle. Or the car’s transmission is not responding properly. So this might be the issue that immediately needs assistance. Another reason for not responding to the transmission is the fluid level. It could be other causes like the incorrect thickness of the fluid, an adjustment in automatic transmission shift cables, and clutch linkage.
So to resolve this issue, you can detach the battery and let it stand for almost 30 minutes. Through which the car’s computer can reset it itself. And If you still feel the same issue, then it is actually time to go and see a mechanic as it could be the big automatic transmission problems.
4. Clunking and Humming noise in the transmission
If you see your vehicle making a different sound than usual like some kind of buzzing, whining, or humming which you haven’t heard before. Then this sound may come due to the transmission’s trouble. The issue might be minor but it could be a signal to a big engine problem. Sometimes the noise may be due to the transmission fluid. As if the transmission fluid is low then the type of humming and clunking sounds come from the transmission.
At that time you have to lubricate the mechanical gear and components with transmission fluid. But if it is serious, then you need to visit the nearest car repair shop.
5. Engine light indicator
On the car dashboard, there are various indicators or warning lights present including an engine warning indicator. This will help the user if there are any problems that occur in your car. If the light turns on, it means that it indicates any transmission issue or any other issues with the vehicle. There is a sensor in the car’s engine that alerts the car’s computer to sense any unusual activity happening in the engine or any other part of the vehicle. In this case, take the vehicle to the nearest repair shop or get it inspected by the transmission mechanics.
6. Faulty torque converter
The torque converter is responsible to manage the entire automatic transmission system including pumps & pressurized transmission fluid. A faulty or bad condition torque converter blocks the fluid pressure & due to this, we are facing the transmission slipping problem. So, for the better performance of automatic transmission & prevent them against this problem regularly check the fuel pressure & lubrication in transmission.
7. Fluid Leaks
Fluid leakage is one of the most common transmission problem sign that lead to some devastating internal issue. most of the time this problem occurs due to the leakage pan gasket, axle, or may be driveshaft seal. Because of the transmission fluid leakage you are facing fuel burning, overheating, or other damage in transmission. Also, this problem will not resolve by adding extra transmission fluid.
If you identify any leakage in your transmission, you need to spot from where it coming. Without any delay repair that cooling line to avoid any internal damage.
Summary
Automatic transmission is designed to make your car driving experience more comfortable. By using this transmission you just press the key & the gear will change automatically. They are also more helpful in the hill-type area & in heavy traffic. But the complex design of automatic transmission creates more problems if you failed to do proper care. In short, the proper knowledge & understanding of how to fix automatic transmission problem will help to reduce the maintenance cost or any heavy replacement cost. There is no matter if you are using any used or new car, you need to follow tips to maintain transmission because it is necessary for its long life or to prevent accidents.
Here in this blog, we have shared the information for most common automatic transmission problems & solutions. By using these tips you will easily to identified the bad transmission sign in automatic transmission. I hope this information is more useful & beneficial for all of you.