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Transmission Problems & Fixes
Your automobile's transmission is one of the most used and most susceptible parts. Even a well-maintained transmission can suffer problems or become completely damaged beyond repair. Fortunately, a lot of the problems that plague transmissions are very common; and with common problems come easy fixes.
In no particular order, here are ten of the most common transmission problems, along with a few tips for fixes or maintenance.
1: Not Going/Slipping Gear
Problem: Sometimes your transmission will have problems going into gear, or even staying in gear once you shift. Often times the shifting can become overly harsh or delayed. Although this isn't necessarily a sign of a larger problem, it's still a problem that should be fixed.
Solution: Luckily, this problem may be fixed by replacing the external controls. There's also a chance that they could just be adjusted. Also, some electrical components may need adjustment or replacement. However, it's always best to let the professionals take a look and diagnose the problem here. It may save you from having to by a new transmission.
2: Leaking Fluid
Problem: Leaking fluid is one of the most common problems to plague transmissions; it's also one that should not be ignored. Fluid is critical to the overall life and performance of your transmission.
Solution: If you have easy access, you can check it out yourself, trying to see if you can spot the leak. Sometimes there will be a loose screw, or perhaps a problem with the fluid cap. However, if it's not one of these easy fixes, you must take it in and have it serviced.
3: Knock-Knock
Problem: Yeah, we've all heard it while driving: that dreaded transmission knock. A normal transmission is usually free of all noise. A knocking sound can indicate that parts inside are banging together. Heat and friction are not a good combination without a barrier.
Solution: This could be an indication that your transmission needs fluid. You may find that you have a massive leak or that the fluid desperately needs to be replaced. If you can't diagnose what the problem is, the experts will have to give it a go. It could also be a very significant problem, like the needle bearings that separate the stator, impeller, convertor housing and the turbine.
4: Sporadic Fluid Levels
Problem: Sometimes your transmission shifts with ease; sometimes it's rough and rigid. Sometimes it makes a noise, and other times it's smooth. These are signs that you have a solenoid problem. The solenoid is the part responsible for controlling the fluid flow to the transmission. The symptoms will be the same as having no fluid or low fluid.
Solution: Although a skilled auto owner could check the solenoid relatively easily, most will have to grin and bear it and take their automobile in for a check-up. Luckily, this problem is relatively inexpensive and the repairs won't take long at all.
5: Noisy Neutral
Problem: This problem isn't to be confused with the all-around knocking transmission. Some transmissions will have a constant, somewhat indescribable noise when in neutral. Since it only happens in neutral, people sometimes fail to realize it's the transmission.
Solution: This problem arises from a lack of fluid, damaged reverse idler gear, or worn teeth or bearings. You can handle the fluid if that's the case, but if it's not, then your vehicle must receive immediate maintenance.
6: Stuck Clutch
Problem: Sometimes the clutch doesn't want to release the drive train. And other times you clutch but can't change gears. This is due to a faulty clutch and isn't directly associated with the actual transmission. Nevertheless, it needs some TLC.
Solution: A lot of times, this can be fixed by a simple clutch adjustment. But if the condition is too far advanced, or you simply don't know how to adjust the clutch, having it professionally repaired is the way to go.
7: Grinding Gears
Problem: This is one of most common problems ever, grinding gears. You go to change gears, especially into reverse, and it sounds like you're stepping on an angry duck with an unusually deep voice. This problem is all about friction.
Solution: A few things can cause this, but they're easily taken care of. You may need to lubricate or adjust the clutch linkage. Also, check the viscosity of the lubricant. If these fixes don't stop the grind, you'll be shop bound.
8: Buck-Jump
Problem: Another common problem, people often experience heavy shaking or jerking in their automobiles, especially when moving or shifting at highway speeds. This can get dangerous if you have children in the car or experience the jump in traffic, become startled, etc.
Solution: The only real solution here is to have your car checked out and serviced. It could be the transmission-and most likely is-but it could be an engine begging for a tune-up.
9: Going Neutral
Problem: While going around turns, accelerating suddenly, or anything else that causes RPMs to rise or fall, the vehicle slips into neutral. This problem is more scary than dangerous... at first, at least. It gives the sensation of slipped traction - like you're coasting.
Solution: 9 times out of 10, this has to do with low fluid levels. Low fluid is a recurring solution, and for good reason. Just as your engine needs oil, so too does your transmission need fluid. Never neglect it.
10: Oh, That Smell
Problem: This problem isn't hard at all to diagnose. The symptom-singular-is easily recognizable. If you've ever noticed a burning smell, your transmission may need some attention.
Solution: This problem comes from either oil or transmission fluid dripping onto the hot exhaust. No matter which fluid is dripping, it needs to be serviced immediately. Your automobile could easily catch fire.
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