Automatic transmissions are becoming an increasingly popular option. It’s not just that they are easier to drive, many modern vehicles with hybrid or electric engines are only available in an automatic option.
However, while the reasoning for wanting to drive an automatic is fairly obvious, the transmissions are more complicated. That means you’re going to have a bigger bill to replace them if you need to. To help avoid this and catch any issue early, you need to recognize the most common signs of an automatic transmission problem.
Of course, if you do have an issuer you need to click here and get expert help, this is not something most people can fix themselves.
1. Strange Noise
You don’t normally hear much noise from your transmission. That’s why any noise should be considered an issue. If you start noticing a noise from your transmission then get it checked out.
While the noise may be heard when driving, it can often be masked by the engine or be difficult to confirm where it is coming from. That’s why it’s best to leave the car running in neutral and listen. This will help you hear a transmission issue and get specialist help.
2. Burning Smell
Manual and automatic vehicles use a clutch to help the vehicle change between gears without damaging the engine When these wear they emit a distinct aroma. It’s worth taking a look at the gearbox if you smell burning. In fact, you should be able to pinpoint that the smell is coming from the transmission.
In most cases, this will be clutch-related but the transmission will need to be removed to replace the clutch.
3. Failure To Get Into Gear
One of the biggest and most problematic issues you’ll face with your automatic transmission is a failure to get into gear.
In a manual vehicle, you can select the gear before starting the engine and at least move the car. It should be noted that this isn’t the ideal solution. But, you don’t have this choice in an automatic.
The moment you notice an issue with the car going into the right gear, you need to get the gearbox checked out. It’s likely to be an issue with the cogs inside the gearbox although the clutch could also be at fault.
A specialist will pinpoint and rectify the issue for you.
4. Leaks
Leaks are never a good thing. If you’re leaking engine oil then you need to deal with the issue before the engine seizes up. The same is true of transmission oil and the transmission.
However, you should note that most modern vehicles have trays under the engines. This protects the bottom of the engine from being damaged by road debris. It also makes it harder to see if you have a leak as the leak will collect on the tray.
For that reason, it’s a good idea to monitor your engine and transmission oil levels regularly. It will help you identify if there is a leak and get the issue resolved.
