Transmissions are incredibly complex systems that are susceptible to damage if not properly maintained. Everything from insufficient fluid levels to worn clutches can lead to costly transmission repairs.
In this article, we will discuss some of the most common causes of transmission problems, including lack of fluid, clogged filters, clutch issues, overheating, solenoid failure, and torque converter problems.
As experts in transmission repairs since 1978, the technicians at Alberta Drive-Line Rebuilders Ltd. have seen these issues time and time again. We want to help drivers understand the importance of preventative transmission maintenance and how to recognize early signs of trouble. Read on for an overview of why preventing transmission damage matters and how you can keep your transmission running smoothly for years to come.
Lack of Transmission Fluid
Transmission fluid plays a critical role in keeping the components of your transmission properly lubricated. It prevents metals from grinding together, provides cooling, and allows gears to shift smoothly.
When fluid levels are low, the transmission loses its vital lubricating properties. Most commonly, low fluid is caused by external leaks or internal fluid burn off over time. Contaminated fluid that has broken down also mimics the effects of low fluid levels. Additionally, failure to change your transmission fluid per the maintenance schedule leads to dirty fluid that cannot protect internal components.
Symptoms of low transmission fluid include slipping between gears, trouble accelerating or shifting, burning smells, transmission overheating, and strange noises coming from under the hood. If left unaddressed, insufficient lubrication causes rapid wear of internal parts, eventually leading to complete transmission failure.
Ignoring signs of low fluid puts your transmission at serious risk. To prevent low fluid problems, consider:
- Regularly inspecting levels and condition.
- Topping up your fluid at regular intervals.
- Checking for and addressing any external leaks promptly.
- Changing your fluid/filter at least every 60,000 kilometres.
Clogged Transmission Filter
The transmission filter plays an integral functional role, trapping debris and preventing contaminants from circulating through the system. Over many kilometres of driving, transmission filters can become clogged with sediment.
When the filter is obstructed, not enough fluid can pass through it adequately, starving your transmission of the lubrication and cooling it relies on. Common symptoms of a clogged filter include rough or slippy gear shifts, whining noises from the transmission, hesitation and a lack of “catch” when accelerating, and reduced acceleration power.
Since nearly all moving components are bathed in fluid, reduced flow causes accelerated wear and tear. The transmission may initially overheat, but eventually a clogged filter will lead to complete failure. To prevent issues, make sure to change your transmission filter according to the maintenance schedule. Use a high quality filter from a reputable brand.
Warning signs like decreased transmission performance should be addressed promptly—replacing a $20 filter is much cheaper than a rebuild!
Clutch Problems in Manual Transmissions
In a manual transmission, the clutch allows the vehicle to transition between gears. It connects and disconnects engine power to the transmission as the gears change. Over time, the friction surfaces of the clutch wear down from heat and frequent use. This causes the clutch to start slipping and makes smooth gear changes difficult.
Other common problems include oil contamination on the clutch, a damaged pressure plate, or burnt up clutch components. Symptoms of clutch issues include the transmission slipping in and out of gear, grinding noises during shifting, high pedal effort, strange vibrations, burning smells, and eventually the inability to get the transmission into gear at all.
While clutch components are wear items, you can take steps to prevent premature wear. Avoid riding the clutch pedal during driving and take off gently. Change the fluid regularly to prevent contamination buildup. Do not haul heavy loads or tow trailers beyond your vehicle’s recommended rating, which causes extra stress on the clutch. If you notice any signs of clutch wear or damage, get the clutch replaced right away to prevent further transmission damage.
Overheating Transmission
While normal operating temperature for a transmission is 175°F to 200°F (79°C to 94°C), consistent temperatures over 230°F (110°C) are considered overheating. The most common cause of overheating is insufficient transmission fluid.
Contaminated old fluid also reduces cooling capabilities. Clogged cooling lines, excessive load on the transmission, and failure of the auxiliary transmission cooler can contribute as well. The consequences of overheating can be catastrophic. Fluid oxidizes and loses its lubricating properties when subjected to high heat. Internal metals can warp or crack. Seals and gaskets melt, leading to leaks. The transmission will eventually fail completely if this overheating persists.
Prevention starts with maintaining proper fluid levels and changing the fluid regularly. Repair any leaks promptly to prevent low levels, and ensure that you never exceed your vehicle’s rated towing or hauling capacity—this will put a significant strain on your transmission. If you notice the temperature gauge rising while driving, pull over and allow the transmission to cool down. Consider installing an auxiliary transmission cooler if you frequently haul heavy loads or tow trailers.
Solenoid Failure
Transmission solenoids play an important role in regulating the flow of fluid to activate gear shifts. They contain small plungers that extend or retract to precisely direct hydraulic fluid.
When solenoids fail, abnormal shifting patterns and gear engagement/disengagement issues result. Common causes are contaminated fluid, electrical faults, or mechanical binding. Malfunctioning shift solenoids will quickly lead to accelerated wear and tear on internal components. To help avoid solenoid problems, change transmission fluid at the specified intervals to prevent contamination.Diagnose any electrical issues promptly that could impact solenoid operation. Most importantly, replace any faulty solenoid as soon as symptoms appear. Allowing a sticking valve or bad solenoid to create abnormal pressure and flow will lead to permanent transmission damage over time.
Torque Converter Problems
The torque converter is responsible for transferring engine power to the transmission and allowing the engine to continue running at idle while the vehicle is stopped.
Root causes for torque converter problems include low fluid levels that prevent proper circulation and cooling, internal fluid leakage, foreign object damage like stones or debris entering through a puncture, and worn internal parts.Consider installing a transmission cooler if you frequently tow or haul.If you experience any symptoms of torque converter failure, get it diagnosed by a professional right away.Allowing debris to circulate or low fluid to persist will lead to complete transmission failure.
Transmission Repairs: Edmonton Relies on Our Expertise
Several common causes of transmission damage can lead to very expensive repairs if left unchecked. Performing regular maintenance and staying vigilant about potential problems are key to preserving the life of your vehicle’s transmission. Do not ignore warning signs like slipping gears or overheating, and immediately bring your car to a shop like Alberta Drive-Line Rebuilders Ltd. at the first signs of trouble.
Our expert technicians have over 40 years of experience specifically with transmission repairs and maintenance. We offer a full range of preventative services like fluid changes, filter replacement, system flushes, and diagnostics. Trust us to accurately assess your transmission issues and make the appropriate recommendations. Whether you need a filter changed or a full rebuild, our skilled team can get your transmission running smoothly again!
Contact Alberta Drive-Line Rebuilders Ltd. today at  1-780-479-8744 to schedule an appointment or request a quote online at info@albertadriveline.com. We look forward to helping extend the life of your vehicle’s transmission.