Not only are transmission leaks a common problem but can be caused by a number of factors including a defective pan gasket. If you spot red oil leaks on the garage floor or on the driveway, don’t hesitate to make an appointment with us. Sometimes it’s something as simple as loose oil pan bolts, but it’s always best to err on the side of caution and have a technician check your vehicle thoroughly. This is also something that can be done on a regular basis to keep your vehicle in great shape.

At Main Line Transmission we’re often asked if this “noise,” often described as clunking, whining or buzzing, is related to or is a result of transmission problems. The fact is the sounds that occur because of transmission problems vary amongst different vehicles. One thing is certain, when it does occur, you’ll recognize the noise as “I’ve never heard that before” coming from your engine.

Generally, manual transmissions sound more mechanical and give a clunking sound when shifting gears. Along with rough shifts, you may also notice that your car has difficulty speeding up. But it’s always best to have your car checked as soon as you can. In the long run the earlier the problem is diagnosed, the lower the cost. Waiting too long can turn a small repair job into a major expense.

Transmission slippage or erratic shifting can be traced to either low fluid levels or an inexpensive solenoid. It occurs when you’re driving in one gear and then it suddenly changes without notice. It may also be accompanied by a whining noise, and your car may be slow to accelerate or seem to struggle to gain power. Often these issues are related to less expensive repairs. It’s best to make an appointment to identify the problem early.

A dragging clutch is associated with manual transmissions. Basically, it’s when a driver pushes in the clutch pedal to shift gears, and the clutch disk fails to disengage from the flywheel. The clutch simply continues to spin along. With every attempt to shift the driver hears a grinding noise. The cause is usually the clutch pedal, and the repair cost for this is minor when compared to other transmission repairs.

The cause for this issue can run the gamut. In fact, people more often than not, fail to make the connection between noise their car emits while in neutral gear and their transmission. Sometimes it’s a simple repair, like replacing the transmission fluid. On the other hand if the noise is pervasive, it could signal something else entirely, like serious mechanical wear. In those cases, it may be worn bearings or worn reverse idler gear.

Anytime you smell something burning from beneath the hood of your vehicle, you should have it checked without delay. Without transmission fluid, parts damage quickly. The presence of lubrication keeps the parts well lubricated and your transmission running efficiently. But sometimes, fluid breaks down causing increased friction and corrosion resulting in sludge and debris. Putting off the inevitable can lead to very expensive replacements. That’s why it’s important to get your fluid levels checked regularly and to make sure you using the correct type of fluid for your vehicle.

Automatic and manual vehicles exhibit different problems when it comes to transmission issues. There shouldn’t be any jerking, grinding or shaking. If you find your vehicle performing in any of these ways, it best to bring it to a qualified transmission specialist for an evaluation.

Generally, when manual transmissions make a grinding noise, it indicates a problem. Sometimes grinding occurs after engaging the clutch to shift into gear, and that could mean that the clutch needs adjustment or it needs to be replaced.

Instead of grinding noises, automatic transmissions may hesitate before engaging into Drive or Reverse. For example, as you shift from [P] Park into Reverse [R]you may notice a long rest before engagement. The motor continues to rev as you give it gas, yet the vehicle does not move in reverse as intended. Other noticeable problems with automatic transmissions include feeling the car shimmy or shake as you put it into gear or a jarring response as the car is taken to the next gear.

Overall, if you notice your car fails to transition smoothly into gear, you may need a mechanic to check it for adjustments or repair.

This is a problem which affects manual transmissions. If you try to shift and your vehicle won’t engage, it could mean that your fluid level is low. At Main Line Transmission, we consider the issues with your car from every angle based on your description of the problem. Other considerations for gear engagement could be that you’re using a fluid type that’s not recommended by your vehicle’s manufacturer or the shift cables need adjustment. Another source could actually be the vehicle’s computer system.

At Main Line Transmission we make every effort in diagnosing the problem accurately the first time. Because of this it’s virtually impossible for us to provide an accurate assessment over the phone or email. You wouldn’t want your doctor diagnosing a medical issue over the phone. Your car deserves the best attention it can possibly receive to keep it running for its entire life. A well-maintained transmission only increases the health of your vehicle for the long haul.