How do I know my transmission is about to go out?
Common signs your transmission may be nearing failure include slipping gears, delayed engagement, unusual noises, and dashboard warning lights. If you notice these symptoms, pull over safely and arrange a professional diagnosis as soon as possible.
Common signs your transmission is failing
Automatics and manuals share many warning signals, but some symptoms are more common in one type than the other. The following signs are the most frequently reported by drivers and technicians.
- Slipping gears or a vehicle that won’t stay in gear
- Delayed engagement or harsh shifts when selecting drive or reverse
- Unusual noises such as whining, clunking, grinding, or whirring
- Transmission fluid leaks or consistently low fluid level
- Warning lights on the dashboard (transmission, check engine, or temperature lights)
- Overheating signs or a burning smell coming from the transmission area
- Limp mode or the car being unable to move in normal operation
- Vibration or shuddering at highway speeds
If you notice one or more of these signs, schedule a diagnostic with a qualified mechanic as soon as possible. Driving with an impending transmission failure can lead to a sudden breakdown and more expensive repairs.
Automatic vs manual transmissions
Automatics are more likely to exhibit slipping, delayed or harsh shifts, and warning lights, while manuals often show clutch-related symptoms such as difficulty engaging gears or a burning smell from the clutch. Both types can experience grinding or noise during gear changes. If you’re uncertain, a trained technician can diagnose using diagnostic codes and a fluid analysis.
Understanding the type of transmission and your vehicle’s maintenance history can help a technician pinpoint the issue more quickly.
What causes transmission failure?
Several factors can lead to transmission problems, ranging from fluid issues to mechanical wear. Knowing common causes helps you prevent issues and seek timely repairs.
- Low, old, or contaminated transmission fluid
- Leaks that allow fluid to escape or that introduce contaminants
- Worn clutch plates (manual transmissions) or worn bands/torque converter components (automatic)
- Faulty solenoids, sensors, or valve body problems
- Overheating due to heavy towing, aggressive driving, or poor cooling
- Contaminated fluids or metal debris in the pan
- Severe driving conditions or lack of regular maintenance
- Manufacturing defects or previous repairs that weren’t resolved properly
Identifying these risks can help you plan maintenance or avoid unexpected failures. Regular service, prompt leak repairs, and fluid changes are key preventive steps.
What should you do if you notice signs?
If symptoms appear, take proactive steps to protect yourself and your vehicle. The following plan offers practical, safety-focused guidance.
- Drive cautiously and minimize further use of the vehicle if shifting is erratic or it won’t move smoothly
- Check for transmission fluid leaks and, if safe and you know the proper procedure, verify fluid level and condition
- Look for puddles under the car and note the color and smell of any fluid
- Schedule a diagnostic with a qualified mechanic or dealership; provide any fault codes if you have them from an OBD-II scanner
- If the car is in limp mode or you’re unable to move safely, arrange tow service to a shop
- Ask for a clear estimate and discuss options, including repair versus replacement, before authorizing work
Prompt diagnosis can prevent further damage and reduce repair costs. If towing is necessary, use a reputable service to avoid additional harm.
Summary
Transmission trouble rarely improves on its own. By recognizing common signs early, understanding potential causes, and seeking professional assessment promptly, you can protect your vehicle, avoid breakdowns, and make smarter repair decisions. Maintain fluid levels, adhere to service intervals, and address warning lights as soon as they appear.
What does a transmission going out sound like?
The noises most commonly heard as a transmission is beginning to experience problems are whining, buzzing, grinding and clunking. It's hard to know exactly what is causing the strange sound. Perhaps it's a small part, or maybe a major component that makes up your transmission.
How do I know if my transmission needs replacing?
What Are the Transmission Failure Symptoms?
- Refusal to Switch Gears. If your vehicle refuses or struggles to change gears, you are more than likely facing a problem with your transmission system.
- Burning Smell.
- Noises When in Neutral.
- Slipping Gears.
- Dragging Clutch.
- Leaking Fluid.
- Check Engine Light.
- Grinding or Shaking.
What does a car do before the transmission goes out?
Often (though not always) a faulty transmission will trigger an engine diagnostic code and trip the Check Engine Light to let you know. Same goes if your engine overheats because of a bad transmission. Problems with a solenoid, speed sensor, slippage, and more can cause the Check Engine Light to come on.
How does a car act when the transmission is going out?
When a car's transmission is failing, it will likely exhibit symptoms like slipping gears, difficulty shifting, and unusual noises. You may also notice a burning smell, fluid leaks, a lack of power, or the car not moving at all. The car may feel like it is lurching, shaking, or the engine's RPMs are increasing without the vehicle speeding up.
This video demonstrates the sound of a failing transmission and shows how the engine RPMs increase without the car gaining speed: 1mEasyAutoFixYouTube · Mar 31, 2021
Common signs of a failing transmission:
- Difficulty Shifting: The car may hesitate, jerk, or feel like it's struggling to shift into gear. You might also notice that it's difficult to get it into a specific gear or even "park".
- Gear Slipping: This happens when the transmission doesn't securely lock into gear, causing the engine's RPMs to rise but the vehicle to not accelerate as expected.
- Unusual Noises: Listen for loud or strange sounds, which can include humming, whining, buzzing, or grinding noises, especially during gear changes.
- Burning Smell: A burning odor, often described as acrid or like burnt oil or rubber, can signal that the transmission is overheating or internal components are breaking down.
- Leaking Fluid: Reddish-brown fluid leaking under the car is a sign of a transmission fluid leak, which can lead to overheating and more severe damage if not addressed.
- Poor Performance: The car may feel sluggish, unresponsive, or lack power. It could also shake or vibrate when accelerating or while in neutral.
- Complete Failure: In the worst case, the transmission may fail completely, preventing the car from moving forward or backward even when the engine is running.
