Transmission slipping can seem like a minor issue at first but lead to major damage if ignored. Slipping occurs when the transmission fails to engage gears properly and simply revs without power going to the wheels.
There are several common signs that may indicate your transmission is starting to slip. Unusual noises when accelerating or shifting, difficulty changing gears, lack of power on acceleration, the vehicle shifting itself into neutral, and odd smells are symptoms not to overlook.
As transmission specialists with over 40 years of experience, Alberta Drive-Line Rebuilders Ltd. emphasizes acting quickly at the first sign of problems to avoid extensive repairs. Read on for more details on what slipping feels like and when to get your vehicle checked out.
Unusual Noises While Driving
Grinding, clunking, humming, or whining noises point to issues like the transmission slipping. These problems occur when slipping creates abnormal friction on internal components. Noises tend to be most noticeable when accelerating or shifting gears.
Don’t assume strange sounds will resolve themselves. The noises indicate mechanical problems that will worsen without attention and continue to break down. Get your vehicle diagnosed promptly to prevent further internal damage.
Regular maintenance services can detect the root cause of noise issues early, before they escalate. At Alberta Drive-Line Rebuilders Ltd, our technicians are trained to recognize concerning sounds from transmissions and determine the cause. We focus specifically on drivetrain systems, so our experts pick up on subtle noises that might elude less specialized shops. Investigating noises quickly nips problems in the bud.
Difficulty Shifting Gears
Transmission slipping makes smooth gear shifts difficult. In manual transmissions, you may experience a stiff clutch pedal or grinding sounds when changing gears.
Automatic transmissions exhibit delayed or hard gear shifts. Whether gradual or rapid onset, the transmission struggles to engage gears properly. This indicates low fluid levels, inadequate hydraulics or internal mechanical issues like worn clutch plates and damaged gears.
Ignoring shifting difficulties will lead to increased component damage over time. The transmission experts at Alberta Drive-Line Rebuilders Ltd. thoroughly inspect and test drive your vehicle to pinpoint the cause. We restore proper functioning through precise repairs or adjustments. Don’t live with difficult shifting—let us get your transmission operating smoothly again to keep you safe on the road.
Poor Acceleration
Pressing the gas pedal without the expected vehicle response is a symptom of transmission slipping. Your engine RPMs will rise, but the vehicle won’t accelerate in tandem until the transmission finally catches.
Trouble accelerating from a stop or low passing power on the highway are common with slipping. The transmission cannot effectively transfer engine power to the wheels. Flooring the gas pedal does little good when the transmission is slipping, and this concerning symptom warrants immediate diagnosis.
Driving cautiously until the issue is properly repaired helps avoid breakdowns. The technicians at Alberta Drive-Line Rebuilders Ltd work quickly to get your acceleration restored.
Car Shifting to Neutral By Itself
A vehicle randomly shifting itself into neutral is a strong indicator of internal transmission failure. The sudden power loss while driving creates hazardous situations. If your vehicle exhibits this behaviour, it requires immediate repair and likely shouldn’t be driven at all until fixed.
We recommend having it towed to our shop to accurately determine if a rebuild or replacement is required. Don’t assume shifting to neutral will be an easy fix or resolve the issue by itself. The transmission specialists at Alberta Drive-Line Rebuilders Ltd. have seen it all, and we’ll help you out to ensure your vehicle is able to quickly get back on the road with improved safety.
Unusual Odours
Pay attention to any unusual burning smells, as they can indicate an overheating transmission. Transmission fluid oxidizing under stress emits a distinct odour. Rubber or chemical scents point to potential fluid leaks.
Unfamiliar odours should never be ignored—have any concerns checked by a professional. At Alberta Drive-Line Rebuilders Ltd, we inspect vehicles for the source of elusive burning or fluid smells.
We don’t want customers driving around with a potential catastrophe waiting to happen. Any smoke, vapours, or dripping fluids call for immediately shutting off the engine and calling for assistance. Allow our experts to diagnose and repair the issue completely before driving again. We prevent recurrence of leaks or overheating issues.
When to Get Checked Out
At the very first sign something seems off with your transmission’s performance, have it checked by a professional. Any potential issues rapidly worsen when left unchecked.
Adapting your driving to avoid problems, like not taking the highway, risks increased component damage. Bring your vehicle to the experts at Alberta Drive-Line Rebuilders Ltd at the first clue of trouble.
Our 40+ years of specialized experience prevents minor problems from cascading into major repairs. Our computer diagnostics precisely identify issues in their infancy, so that our skilled technicians are able to thoroughly troubleshoot and pinpoint the root cause. Proactive maintenance prevents most transmissions from ever slipping. But when repairs are needed, we are your go-to transmission experts, and we have worked with vehicles for decades now.
Our flexible scheduling and loaner cars minimize customer inconvenience. Don’t gamble with your transmission—contact Alberta Drive-Line Rebuilders Ltd. at the initial hints of trouble.
Transmission Repair in Edmonton
Pay attention and listen for unusual noises, shifting issues, acceleration problems, or smells that could indicate that your transmission is slipping. Seek professional diagnosis immediately rather than waiting to see if problems disappear.
Our goal is to keep your vehicle running smoothly for years to come. Contact Alberta Drive-Line Rebuilders Ltd today to request an appointment!
With over four decades of drivetrain repair expertise, the team at Alberta Drive-Line Rebuilders Ltd. encourages customers to be vigilant about preventative transmission maintenance. We’re happy to inspect your vehicle and ensure peace of mind about its operational health.
Contact us at 1-780-479-8744 or info@albertadriveline.com to discuss any concerns about your vehicle’s transmission performance.