Midwest Auto Care knows a thing or two about transmissions. We maintain and repair both automatic and manual transmission systems and we can make sure your vehicle’s transmission always works as it should. Your transmission will alert you if there is a problem. Here are seven things it might do when it needs service, repair, or replacement.
Grind or Rattle
You shouldn’t hear a grinding sound when your vehicle shifts gears or while it is in gear. You also should not hear rattling or feel shaking. Gear shifts should be smooth and quiet, and once your car, truck, or SUV is in gear, there should be no grinding sounds or any shaking sensations.
No Engagement
Your vehicle should always respond once it is in gear, whether you drive an automatic or manual transmission. If it fails to respond, i.e. it won’t go into drive from park or neutral, you’ve got transmission problems. It should go into each gear seamlessly and respond.
Noisy Neutral
If you hear noises while your vehicle is idling in neutral, this, too, is a sign you have a transmission problem. Things should be quiet, except for the sound of your engine, of course. You shouldn’t hear buzzing, clunking, humming, or whining while your vehicle idles.
Burning Smells
This sign is more common in manual transmissions when the clutch is going out. Oftentimes, the clutch will overheat because of a failing part and you will smell a burning smell almost like burning rubber. Any burning smell can be dangerous, so pull over and turn off your automobile.
Slipping Gears
If your vehicle does go into each gear without trouble but slips out of them, you need a transmission inspection. Slipping gears will feel as if your car, truck, or SUV is shifting gears without reason on its own. Driving under this condition can further damage the transmission.
Fluid Problems
Leaking transmission fluid means you have a leak somewhere or your transmission is burning fluid for some reason. Transmission fluid is usually red. Dirty transmission fluid can be dark red to black. Pink transmission fluid usually indicates serious trouble and a new transmission.
Check Engine Light
Finally, if your check engine comes on while you’re driving, you might have problems with the transmission or another vehicle system. The check engine light will also come on if your exhaust system is breaking down or the ignition system is failing.
Midwest Auto Care in Lake Station, IN, would be happy to inspect your transmission. Call us today at 219-244-2510 to schedule an appointment.