Can You Sense Transmission Trouble?
When it comes to transmission repairs, it is always best to catch the problem as early as possible. You may be able to prevent major internal damage within the transmission unit. You may be able to address the issue with minor repairs or maintenance, rather than facing a full transmission replacement or rebuild if the transmission fails completely.
There are many common warning signs of transmission failure. You can also use your five senses (well, four out of the five) to detect possible transmission trouble or other automotive problems. Let’s take a look at some of the things you may notice:
Sight: Look for Transmission Fluid Leaks
You can certainly use your eyes to see if there is a problem with your transmission. The most obvious sign of damage is if there is a transmission fluid leak under your vehicle. Transmission fluid is generally bright red in color and a leak would come from under the middle of the vehicle where the transmission is located. Any transmission fluid leak is a serious concern. It may simply be a loose fitting or worn pan gasket. Or, it may be something worse.
You can also use your sense of sight to check the transmission fluid periodically. Most vehicles have a transmission oil dipstick that enables you to look at the fluid level and quality. If the transmission fluid is low or the fluid itself is dark, dirty or burnt, you should get your transmission inspected soon.
Smell: Be Wary of Strange Vehicular Odors
You can of course follow your nose when sensing transmission trouble. A burning smell is common when you are low on transmission fluid, or if the fluid quality is poor/old. It will often have a somewhat sweet and sugary smell. Of course, strange smells and burning odors can also happen with other automotive fluid problems, exhaust damage or electrical issues. If you smell something odd when driving, it’s best to get your vehicle looked at by an automotive expert to determine the source of the problem.
Sound: Can You Hear Trouble?
Your ears can also tell you when something is wrong with your vehicle. Common transmission problem noises include loud clunking, grinding of gears and rattling. Screeches and squeals are more likely to be tires, brakes and engine noises. Rattling can also come from a failing exhaust system. As always, it’s smart to keep your ears open for any strange sounds and get the problem figured out sooner rather than later.
Feel: Something Doesn’t Feel Right
Lastly, many transmission problems can be felt while you are driving. You may notice some unusual vibrations or feel when gears are grinding. Your vehicle may seem abnormally sluggish during acceleration or it may be slipping in and out of certain gears. A loose clutch pedal in a manual transmission vehicle is something easy to notice. If something doesn’t feel right when driving, then you may have a problem worth getting checked out.
Taste: Don’t Try It!
Please do not try to figure out any automotive problems with your mouth or your sense of taste. We hope this goes without saying, but we’ll say it anyway. Let your other four senses do the work!
If you think you might have transmission problems, call Escalon Transmission today at (209) 838-0113 or schedule a service appointment online.
