10 Most Common Signs of Transmission Trouble

It can be frustrating when your vehicle isn’t running well, especially when you have transmission problems. At the first sign of transmission trouble, you should get your vehicle inspected by a local transmission specialist. A skilled technician can identify the problems and recommend the necessary repairs. A full transmission rebuild or replacement may be necessary if the internal damage is significant enough.

Ideally, you can catch potential transmission issues early on and avoid major repairs. Here are some of the most common warning signs of transmission trouble:

1. Slipping Gears

It can be dangerous to drive with a slipping transmission. The transmission has trouble staying in gear or slips when shifting between certain gears. This is a clear warning sign you might have something wrong with your transmission, and you don’t want to wait too long to get it checked out by an expert.

2. Check Engine Light

The check engine light can come on for many different reasons. It could be a sign there’s something wrong with the engine, exhaust, fuel system, cooling system or a sensor is failing. It will also typically illuminate when there is a transmission issue.

3. Transmission Warning Lights/Messages

In addition to the check engine light, most vehicles have transmission-specific warning lights or computer system warning messages. The transmission temperature gauge warning light is one to look out for because an overheating transmission is a serious problem that requires immediate attention.

4. Transmission Fluid Leak

Any automotive fluid leak should be cause for concern, especially transmission fluid. Automatic transmission fluid (ATF) is generally bright red in color and the leak may be visible under the middle of the vehicle where the transmission is located.

5. Sluggish Acceleration

This can often happen in tandem with slipping gears. Sometimes, it just feels like your vehicle is extremely sluggish when you try to accelerate. If it is slow to respond at certain speeds, you may have a transmission problem.

6. Burning Smells

A burning odor is common when transmission fluid is getting too old or dirty, or if the fluid level is too low and the transmission components don’t have proper lubrication. Any time you notice a strange smell coming from your vehicle—especially burning—you should get it looked at as soon as possible.

7. Neutral Noises

If you are idling in neutral and you notice any unusual sounds, it could be the sign of a transmission issue. A transmission specialist can help identify the problem.

8. Strange Sounds While Driving

In addition to noises in neutral, another common sign of transmission trouble is when you hear strange sounds while you are driving. Examples include clunking, whining or humming.

9. Vibrations, Grinding or Shuddering

There are times when you hear your transmission issues with odd sounds. Then, there are times when you will feel something bizarre. Grinding when shifting between gears, shaking while driving or shuddering at certain speeds are all symptoms of possible transmission damage.

10. Won't Engage at All

Lastly, a clear sign of transmission trouble is when the vehicle won’t engage into gear at all. It may not shift from park into drive or reverse, and you are stuck going nowhere. You may need to have your vehicle towed to a transmission expert for further diagnosis and repairs.

If you are in the San Joaquin Valley and are experiencing any of these potential transmission problems, call Escalon Transmission at (209) 838-0113 or schedule an appointment online to get a proper transmission inspection.