Few components are as vital to a car’s operation as the transmission. When a vehicle’s transmission stops working, the car itself stops working as well.
Fortunately, transmissions generally hold up for a very long time. That said, they’re still quite capable of incurring critical damage. The question is: how can you tell if your transmission needs to be replaced? The answer: by looking out for a few specific signs.
Without further ado, here are 5 signs that you may need a transmission replacement in Itasca.
1. Black Transmission Fluid
A particularly obvious sign that your transmission needs to be repaired is that it’s fluid has turned black. Transmission fluid becomes black after years of consistent use. Why does it turn black, in particular? Because it becomes burnt.
The problem with burnt fluid is that its consistency changes. It goes from a smooth liquid to a tarry sludge. As such, it does a poor job of providing lubrication to the transmission’s many moving parts.
Fortunately, black fluid is a fairly easy problem to deal with. You can simply flush it and replace it with new fluid. A transmission repair specialist can help you with this task.
2. Leaking Transmission Fluid
An obvious sign that your transmission requires a repair or replacement is that it’s leaking fluid. Transmission fluid should never, under any circumstances, be leaking out of the transmission. If it is, it’s most likely because the transmission has suffered structural damage of some kind.
Rest assured, this is not something you’ll want to play around with. Driving on a structurally damaged transmission could cause irreparable damage. This would require an expensive replacement as opposed to a reasonably priced repair.
Wondering what transmission fluid looks like? It has a reddish-brown tint. Therefore, if you see this fluid on your garage floor, it’s recommended that you take your vehicle to a mechanic as soon as possible.
3. Strange Noises
Is your vehicle making any strange noises? For instance, maybe there’s a grinding or clunking sound coming from the hood? If so, there’s almost certainly a problem.
These types of noises can come from a variety of sources. Note, however, that they often come from transmissions, in particular. Regardless, it’s best to have your vehicle inspected by a mechanic as soon as possible. Allowing this problem to persist could result in even more severe damage.
4. Poor Odors
Automobiles release odors of all kinds. These odors can vary from rubber odors, to chemical odors, to burning odors, and more. Whereas some aren’t much cause for concern, others definitely are.
The odor that’s perhaps most troubling is the burning odor. This odor can signify a number of things, most of which are bad. When it comes to the transmission, specifically, it can signify burnt and deteriorated transmission fluid.
If you notice a strange odor, it’s best that you take your vehicle to an auto repair shop sooner rather than later. The shop’s mechanic will be able to assess the problem and make any necessary repairs.
5. Delayed Shifting
The final sign that your transmission needs attention is that it’s delaying while shifting. This is generally characterized by momentary pauses and jerks, some of which might produce a whiplash effect.
The reason for delayed shifting? In most cases, your transmission isn’t properly lubricated. As such, it’s producing great friction and is causing its gears to get stuck as they shift.
You don’t want to let this problem persist for long. It’s recommended that you take your vehicle to a transmission repair technician and have it fixed as soon as possible.
Are You in Need of a Transmission Repair or Replacement in Itasca, Illinois?
Have you encountered any of the signs reviewed above? Are you in need of a transmission repair or replacement in Itasca, Illinois? If so, we here at King Transmission Company have you covered.
We’ve been serving the Itasca area since 1954, and over the years, we’ve replaced the transmissions in countless automobiles. Regardless of your vehicle’s make and model, we can help you.
Contact us today to get started!
