Whether you drive a stick or automatic, your vehicle’s transmission has a very important job—transferring energy from the engine to the wheels. When working properly, your transmission should provide seamless shifting in all conditions; however, problems with your transmission can cause significant headaches and potentially costly repairs.

Knowing the most likely causes of transmission failure can help you identify a potentially serious problem before it becomes catastrophic. Let’s look at some of the most common causes of transmission failure and how to spot them.

Transmission Fluid is Old

Most automatic transmissions should be serviced annually (about every 12,000 miles) to ensure proper operation. Transmission fluid provides essential lubrication to your transmission’s many moving parts. Over time, however, transmission fluid can lose viscosity or become contaminated with road grit that increases friction and robs your transmission of efficiency. Replacing your transmission fluid annually is a vital step in prolonging the life of your transmission.

Dipstick Errors

Often it is difficult to tell if your dipstick measurement is accurate. Transmission fluid pans vary in depth, which can result in some confusion. To avoid errors, be sure your transmission dipstick reaches the bottom of the fluid pan when the car is cold to get an accurate measurement. Inaccurate measurements can leave you short on transmission fluid.

Fluid Leaks

Your transmission is basically a closed system, with transmission fluid providing vital lubrication. A slow leak in your transmission is easy to miss, but can have serious consequences if your fluid runs too low. In some cases, you may notice a burning smell coming from your transmission, as leaking fluid comes in contact with hot surfaces. This is a sign to get your transmission seals checked.

Transmission Filter is Clogged

If your vehicle’s transmission filter becomes clogged, it can no longer do its job effectively, which can result in gear grinding, gear slippage, or a sluggish transmission. Be sure you get your transmission filter checked and replaced as needed to keep your vehicle operating at peak performance.

Torque Converter Problems

If you hear a grinding or brushing sound coming from your transmission, the problem could be your torque converter. Over time, needle bearings can become worn, resulting in reduced efficiency and (if left untreated) potentially serious damage to your vehicle.

Preventing Transmission Problems 

Your transmission was built to last the life of your vehicle, but damage, wear, and insufficient maintenance can shorten your transmission’s lifespan and can lead to potentially costly repairs, rebuilds, or even replacement of your transmission.

Don’t take chances with your vehicle. Here are some simple steps you can take to increase the working life of your transmission.

  • Don’t skimp on maintenance. An annual transmission check helps ensure prompt fluid replacement and allows a qualified tech to examine your transmission for signs of damage, wear, or lost efficiency. A little care now can save you time, money, and hassles down the road.
  • Don’t ignore strange sounds. When operating properly, your vehicle’s transmission should operate smoothly and silently. Grinding, clunking, brushing, or humming could all be signs of a transmission problem. Be sure you describe any unusual noises to your transmission tech.
  • Pay attention to your vehicle’s operation. When your transmission is operating as it should, you should hardly know it’s there. But if you notice that shifting has become sluggish or unresponsive, this could indicate a transmission problem that should be checked.

At Main Line Transmissions, we’ve built our reputation by providing only top quality service to our customers. Have questions about your transmission or need a transmission check-up? Call and make an appointment to come see us. Our professional techs have the skills required to maintain and troubleshoot your transmission errors. Don’t wait until your vehicle’s transmission leaves you stranded. Come in and see us today!