The transmission system is one of the most critical parts of any vehicle. It transfers power from the engine to the car's wheels and has complex parts that interact with many internal and external components. A vehicle cannot run without a functioning transmission, so diagnosing transmission problems early and getting them checked out as soon as possible is very important. Here are some common transmission issues and how you can spot them.
Clutch Wear
A worn-out clutch may start to slip during acceleration in vehicles with a manual transmission. This can cause the engine to rev higher than usual, making the clutch pedal stiffer. Replacing the clutch is a technical process and will require a professional mechanic.
Broken Sensors
Most vehicles come equipped with transmission sensors. As the vehicle ages, the sensors start to break down and wear out, which causes them to develop issues and stop working. Visit a service center to have the sensors replaced so they can properly monitor the transmission system and help detect problems early.
Broken Transmission Bands
Transmission bands hold the different gears together to provide better vehicle handling. The bands are prone to breaking; when they do, the gears get stuck in high or low RPMs. As a result, a vehicle with an automatic transmission cannot accelerate because the transmission is stuck. Have a professional technician replace or repair the bands to fix the problem.
Leaking Transmission Oil
The transmission oil allows the transmission system to run smoothly. With time, different transmission parts, like the gasket and seals, wear out and cause the transmission fluid to leak. A low amount of transmission fluid causes the gears to grind harder and produce more friction which can cause breakage leading to costly repairs or complete replacement. Have the transmission repaired and components replaced when they leak to save you thousands of dollars in repairs.
Checking a vehicle for leaks is also an easy process. A leak from the bottom is most likely from the transmission pan; if it is from the front, it is probably the vehicle's front main. When in doubt, have a mechanic check the leak's location and fix it.
Old Filters and Fluids
Old filters and fluids can lead to problems in the transmission system as they accumulate solid deposits that damage the gears' teeth. Although the transmission fluid does not require constant replacement, it does not last forever. Check your vehicle manual to know how often you should change the fluid. It is also recommended to replace the filters when necessary.
Overheating Transmission
The transmission can overheat for reasons like old fluids or jammed gears. Overheating leads to ruptured seals, slipping transmission bands, cracked gears, failed bearings, and delayed clutch engagement. Have a mechanic inspect the transmission system to determine the root cause of the problem to avoid more severe issues that would result in the complete replacement of the entire system.
Torque Converter
A torque converter is found in vehicles with an automatic transmission to control the coupling of the transmission to the engine. A faulty or ineffective converter will emit clicking or whirring noises when shifting gears that alert a driver to the problem. Using a defective torque converter causes the transmission to slip when accelerating, leading to shuddering. The torque converter has a long lifespan, but the car will require a transmission rebuild when it wears out.
Slipping Gears and Rough Shifting
Transmission gears slip due to jammed gears or worn-out bands, making upshifting and downshifting difficult. The vehicle suddenly changes its current gear while driving, and a manual transmission can force the gear stick back into neutral. Have a mechanic inspect the transmission and replace any worn-out parts to get the car back to normal.
The Takeaway
The transmission system is a critical component in a vehicle, and it's important to understand how it works to ensure it functions properly and remains in good condition. Transmission repairs are costly, but if you detect problems early on, you can avoid spending much.
Always hire a professional mechanic to service your vehicle. Sunset Cadillac of Bradenton is here to help you if your car has transmission problems or you have a query on transmission maintenance. We will inspect your car thoroughly and fix any problems to get you back on the road. Contact us for more information about our services.
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