When a vehicle’s transmission goes bad, the vehicle itself goes bad. As such, it’s important that you keep an eye on your transmission at all times.
Looking for signs that your transmission might be on the fritz? Wondering whether you might require transmission repair in Clarendon Hills? Here are some signs that you do.
Its Fluid is Burnt
The first sign of a faulty transmission is burnt transmission fluid. If your transmission fluid is burnt, it’s because it’s been used for too long and is starting to experience deterioration.
What does burnt transmission fluid look like? In most cases, it’s black and sludgy. However, in some cases, it will be brown instead of black. One thing to note is that, in its prime state, the fluid will have a dark red tint.
Generally speaking, transmission fluid should be changed every 30,000 to 60,000 miles. If it’s not, it will place undue stress on the transmission, negatively affecting its efficiency and causing it to deteriorate before its time.
Its Gears are Slipping
Does your vehicle tend to “jump” when it’s accelerating or decelerating? If so, its transmission is likely the culprit. When a transmission is impaired, or when it’s not being lubricated properly, it has trouble with smoothly shifting from gear to gear.
As such, its gears begin to rub together violently, resulting in quick “jumping” movements. These jumping movements are usually indicative of a phenomenon known as gear slipping.
In most cases, this problem can be solved with a fluid change. However, in some cases, structural repair will be needed.
It’s Making Strange Noises
Another thing to look (or listen) for is strange noises. Grinding and squeaking noises, in particular, are often indicative of transmission problems. This is particularly true if they’re occurring while the vehicle is in neutral.
Note, however, that these noises could be indicative of other problems as well. For instance, a faulty drive shaft could cause a vehicle to squeak. That being said, the transmission is one of the first places you should look.
An experienced mechanic will be able to identify the problem fairly quickly. As such, if there are strange noises coming from your vehicle, it’s recommended that you visit your local mechanic as soon as possible.
It’s Slow to Respond
Does your vehicle seem to hesitate after you push down its accelerator? If so, it could very well be suffering from a transmission problem. Damaged and ill-lubricated transmissions are often slow to respond to engine commands.
Odds are, this problem will be eliminated with a transmission flush. Make note, however, that full-on structural repair might be needed. In either case, a transmission repair specialist is the person to see.
It’s Leaking
A sure sign that your transmission requires repair is that it’s leaking. If your transmission is leaking, it has most likely suffered structural damage and needs to be repaired immediately. Depending on the circumstances, this repair could be either minor or major.
Wondering how to spot transmission fluid on the ground? All you have to do is look for a dark red fluid. If you see this color fluid on the floor of your garage or driveway, it’s nearly a sure sign that your transmission is leaking.
In Need of Transmission Repair in Clarendon Hills?
Is your transmission impaired? Are you in need of transmission repair in Clarendon Hills? If so, we here at King Transmission Company are the people to see.
We’ve been fixing transmissions in the Clarendon Hills area for over 60 years. Regardless of the make and model of your vehicle, we can accommodate you.
Contact us to schedule an appointment!
