What are the first signs of transmission problems?

Transmission problems can be tricky to diagnose, as they often develop gradually over time. However, there are several early warning signs that can indicate potential transmission issues. By recognizing these signs, you can address the problem before it becomes more severe and costly to repair.

Slipping or Delayed Gear Engagement

One of the first signs of transmission trouble is when the gears seem to "slip" or take longer than usual to engage. This can manifest as a delay in acceleration or a feeling of the engine revving higher without a corresponding increase in speed. This could be a sign of low transmission fluid, worn clutch plates, or other internal transmission component issues.

Grinding or Shaking During Gear Shifts

If you notice grinding, shaking, or other unusual noises when shifting gears, this may indicate a problem with the transmission's internal components. Worn synchronizers, damaged gear teeth, or misalignment can all cause these types of noises and vibrations.

Leaking Transmission Fluid

Transmission fluid leaks are another early warning sign of potential problems. Look for dark, reddish-brown fluid pooling under your vehicle or dripping from the transmission housing. Leaks can be caused by worn seals, gaskets, or even damage to the transmission case itself.

Difficulty Shifting Gears

If you find that shifting gears is becoming increasingly difficult, this could indicate an issue with the transmission's internal components or linkage. Stiff, sticky, or "notchy" gear shifts may be a sign of low fluid levels, worn synchronizers, or problems with the clutch or shift mechanisms.

Transmission Warning Lights

Many modern vehicles are equipped with transmission-specific warning lights on the dashboard. If this light illuminates, it's a clear sign that the vehicle's onboard computer has detected a problem with the transmission system. This could be anything from a sensor issue to a more serious internal component failure.

If you experience any of these early warning signs, it's important to have your vehicle's transmission inspected by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible. Addressing transmission problems early can help prevent more extensive and costly repairs down the line.

What happens if you keep driving with a bad transmission?

Keeping a bad transmission can lead to severe engine damage, a complete transmission failure, and a much more expensive repair or replacement down the line. Driving with a faulty transmission can also be hazardous due to unpredictable shifting, sudden loss of power, and reduced vehicle control. 
What happens to the transmission

• Further internal damage: Continued driving can cause internal components to grind and fail, potentially destroying what was once a repairable issue. 
• Catastrophic failure: A bad transmission can fail completely, leaving you stranded and unable to move the vehicle. 
• Overheating: A failing transmission generates excessive heat, which can lead to a total breakdown. 
• Fluid loss: Leaking or low transmission fluid can cause the gears to grind and overheat, damaging the gearbox just like running out of engine oil. 

What happens to the rest of the vehicle

• Engine damage: The added strain from a faulty transmission can overwork and damage the engine. 
• Compromised drivetrain: Issues like slipping gears put stress on the engine mounts and chassis. 
• System malfunctions: Transmission problems can affect the vehicle's computer system, leading to other performance issues. 

Risks to the driver

• Hazardous situations: A malfunctioning transmission can cause erratic behavior, such as slipping gears or sudden loss of power, which is dangerous, especially in traffic or bad weather.
• Accidents: The unpredictability of a failing transmission increases the risk of an accident. 

You can watch this video to learn about the signs of a failing transmission: 1mScotty KilmerYouTube · Jun 21, 2021
What you should do

• Get it checked immediately: If you notice any signs of trouble with your transmission, take it to a professional for inspection as soon as possible. 
• Avoid driving if possible: Limit driving to the shortest, safest distance necessary to get to a repair shop. If the transmission completely fails, pull over safely, turn on your hazard lights, put it in park, and call a tow truck. 

Can a transmission fail without warning?

Transmission failures rarely happen without warning. Small changes in shifting, noise, or fluid quality are early signals that something is wrong. Catching them early keeps a minor repair from turning into a major overhaul.)

How do I test my transmission?

To check the transmission, first warm up the engine and then locate the transmission fluid dipstick, which is often in the back of the engine bay. Pull the dipstick, wipe it clean, reinsert it fully, and pull it out again to check the level against the "full" markings. For sealed transmissions without a dipstick, check the fluid level using an inspection plug on the transmission case.
 
Steps to check transmission fluid with a dipstick

• Warm up the engine: Drive the car for a while to get the engine and transmission to normal operating temperature. 
• Park on a level surface: Park on a flat, level surface and engage the parking brake. 
• Start the engine: Start the engine and keep it running in park or neutral for a few minutes to circulate the fluid. 
• Locate the dipstick: Find the transmission fluid dipstick, which typically has a brightly colored handle (often red, yellow, or orange) and is usually located near the back of the engine compartment. 
• Check the level: Pull the dipstick out, wipe it clean with a rag, and reinsert it fully. Pull it out again to check the fluid level. 
• Check the condition: Inspect the fluid's color and smell. It should be clear with a pink hue and have a mild smell. If it looks dark brown, black, or smells burnt, take it to a mechanic. 
• Add fluid if needed: If the level is below the "full" line, use a funnel to add the correct type of fluid in small increments, rechecking the level each time to avoid overfilling. 

This video demonstrates how to check your transmission fluid: 1mEricTheCarGuyYouTube · Jan 11, 2019
Steps to check a sealed transmission

• Locate the fill and inspection plugs: Find the fill and inspection plugs on the side of the transmission case; consult your owner's manual if you can't find them.
• Check the level: Remove the inspection plug. If fluid drains out, the transmission is overfilled. If no fluid comes out, it needs more.
• Add fluid if needed: Add the correct type of fluid through the fill plug until it begins to drain from the inspection plug hole. 

You can watch this video to learn how to check the transmission fluid of a sealed transmission: 59sproclaimliberty2000YouTube · May 16, 2020

How do I know if I have transmission problems?

Common symptoms of a bad transmission include unusual noises like whining or grinding, slipping gears, a burning smell, and transmission fluid leaks. Other signs include difficulty shifting, delayed engagement when shifting into gear, a burning smell, the "check engine" light, and a shaking or vibrating sensation while driving.
 
Performance and shifting problems 

• Slipping gears: The engine revs high, but the car doesn't accelerate as expected, or it feels like it's shifting erratically. 
• Delayed or rough shifts: There is a noticeable delay when shifting between gears, or the shift is harsh, jerky, or clunky. 
• Failure to engage: The vehicle doesn't move when put into drive or reverse, even when the accelerator is pressed. 
• Loss of power: The car feels sluggish, especially when accelerating or going up hills. 

Noises

• Grinding, whining, or clunking: These sounds often occur during gear changes or while in neutral. 
• Buzzing: This noise can sometimes be linked to a faulty torque converter. 

Smells and leaks 

• Burning smell: A burning odor, sometimes described as burning rubber, is a common sign of a transmission problem. 
• Fluid leaks: Red, brown, or other-colored fluid leaking under the car is a strong indicator of a transmission issue. 

Other warning signs

• Check engine light: The "check engine" or a dedicated transmission warning light may illuminate. 
• Vibrating or shaking: The car may shake or vibrate while shifting gears.