Most of us own a car but we rarely think about the processes it goes through while we drive from point A to point B. As a machine that comprises of hundreds of moving parts and separate systems, it can be hard to pinpoint the source of strange sounds from your car. However, with some basic knowledge, you can easily navigate your way around.
Understanding Transmissions
The first step to solving your car’s transmission problem is understanding what your transmission does. The transmission is one of the hardest-working components in your car. It performs an important and indispensable function of sending power from the engine to the wheels through the driveshaft to get your car to move. This causes the transmission to face tremendous pressure and heat. Issues pertaining to the transmission are urgent and can be expensive to repair. Keeping an eye out on potential transmission issues can save you money in the long run if you detect problems early.
Common transmission problems
Slow Transmission
A slow transmission is quite easy to notice and can be the first sign that your car is having transmission issues. Consider that you just turned on your car and shifted the gear to reverse and tried reversing. In the case of good transmission, the gear shift should immediately launch the car into the gear. If you feel a slight pause before the car lurches into gear, it may be a sign that you need a transmission repair. Shifting delays, whether it is an automatic or manual transmission, can mean that your clutch needs to be replaced immediately. Remember that if unoperated, the clutch can wear out over time and become even slower or completely inoperative. In the case of manual transmission, you may use the clutch much more frequently than you realize especially if you have a lengthy commute. It is advisable to shift your car to neutral and use the brake in such scenarios.
Fluid issues
Another common transmission issue is leaking or low fluid levels. All transmissions need fluid. If and when the fluid starts to get dirty or begins to leak, it can be an onset of several big problems. If these early signs are ignored, you could potentially be looking at a significant transmission rebuild or replacement. Fluid is the life and blood of your transmission. Automatic and manual transmissions utilize different kinds of fluids, but itās an essential component of your transmission whether your vehicle is brand new or not. As a part of the regular maintenance schedule, make it a point to check the transmission fluid just like you check oil levels. Look out for dark spots that appear under your car. Generally, automatic transmission fluid is reddish in colour and starts getting darker when it becomes older. Ensure that you check it at least once a month.
Burning Smell
If you smell something burning when you drive your car, bring in your car in immediately for transmission check. A burning smell could mean a variety of issues. One of them could be old transmission fluid that was broken down and has turned into sludge.
Apart from these, there are many other signs that your car will give out to you to indicate transmission issues. Strange shakes and noises, grinding, dragging clutches, slipping gears and if your engine light keeps flickering, these are perfect reasons to bring your vehicle immediately to Alberta Drive-Line Rebuilders Ltd for a detailed check-up. We are a team of qualified, experienced and licensed mechanics trained to rectify any transmission problem.