In order to prevent problems, Central Auto Care advises that the automatic transmission in your automobile needs to be serviced every 48,000 kilometres. This gives auto technicians a chance to change the transmission oil and flush the system to make certain it isn’t clogged. It also allows technicians the opportunity to inspect the transmission thoroughly to make certain all the parts are in excellent condition. Failure to service the transmission can result in the following eight issues.
1. Can’t Go Into Gear
If the transmission is in serious condition, it will not go into gear. You won’t be able to drive your car, truck, or SUV because you won’t be able to get it into Drive or Reverse. You may move the gear shifter inside the vehicle, but the automatic transmission will not respond.
2. Cannot Shift Gears
Even if you do get the transmission into gear, a faulty transmission may refuse to shift through the gear cycle. It will remain in first gear no matter how fast you drive. Obviously, driving too fast in first gear can damage the automatic transmission and the engine.
3. Slips Out of Gear
Before either of these things happen, you may have a problem with the transmission slipping out of gear. This can occur if the transmission is overdue for service and needs to be repaired. While you are driving, your vehicle will lose power if it isn’t in gear.
4. Leaks Red Fluid
Transmission problems can also occur if the transmission starts to leak its crucial fluid. This fluid acts as an oil to protect the transmission’s parts and as a hydraulic fluid to help the transmission shift gears. A transmission fluid leak should be fixed right away.
5. Overheats/Smells Hot
If it isn’t, the transmission will start to overheat while you drive your automobile. The parts inside the transmission will generate friction and heat because there isn’t enough fluid to keep them lubricated and cool. You will smell hot odours inside the vehicle.
6. Makes Strange Noises
The transmission can also make grinding noises if the fluid level is low. This, too, points to the fact that the parts are not being lubricated. Another sign that the transmission is going bad is humming noises. You will hear these noises in Neutral.
7. Vibrates the Vehicle
A healthy transmission will shift the gears silently and smoothly. An unhealthy transmission will make your vehicle vibrate every time it shifts the gears. Rough gear shifts are also a sign that the transmission is overdue for a fluid change and servicing.
8. Turns on the CEL
Finally, the transmission itself won’t turn on the check engine light, but sensors inside the transmission will cause the main computer chip in your vehicle to turn it on. They will report errors to the computer chip if the transmission is faulty.
Central Auto Care in Okotoks, AB, is here for all of your automotive service and repair needs. Call us today to set up a service visit.