Transmission Problems

A vehicle transmission is the unit in a car that sends, or "transmits," power from the engine to the drive wheels. It functions through a series of gears that maintain the proper power range between the engine and the wheels. There are two types of transmissions: a manual transmission, which requires the gears to be operated by hand through the movement of a lever called a gearshift; or an automatic transmission, which requires no manual function. If a transmission does not operate properly, it can have a major impact on how a vehicle functions. There are some common problems that transmissions can suffer from.

Dashboard Warning Light

Most modern vehicles are equipped with a warning light on the dashboard known as a "check engine light." This displays when one of your vehicle's computerized sensors detect a possible problem. It could be as simple as a gas tank cap not being properly secured, or could be an indicator of more complex engine issues, such as transmission problems. When this light appears, it is important to have your vehicle checked as soon as possible.

Noise

Unusual noises coming from underneath your car, such as a clunking noise when changing gears, could be a sign of transmission trouble. This could mean that the transmission fluid is low or dirty, since properly lubricated transmission parts are virtually soundless. It could also mean that some transmission parts are wearing out.

Leaking Fluid

While the leaking of transmission fluid may not necessarily mean that the transmission is damaged, a lack of fluid can ultimately lead to serious problems. Since the fluid serves to keep the transmission cool, without the proper fluid level it could overheat, resulting in extensive damage. Inadequate fluid can also prevent the transmission from operating properly, since it provides the engine with power from the transmission.

Difficulty Shifting Gears or Transmission "Slippage"

If your transmission does not seem to be operating properly while driving, such as difficulty shifting gears or the slipping out of gears, it could be a sign of external transmission problems or more serious internal issues. Internal problems could be an indication of the wearing out of parts which must be replaced, or the problem may just be a simple matter of adjusting or replacing the external controls.

Vehicle Will Not Operate

Of course, the most serious transmission problem occurs when it prevents the vehicle from moving at all. This could be caused by several factors, such as no transmission fluid, lack of fluid in the differential and transfer case, or an internal problem. In this situation, a complete engine diagnostic must be completed to determine if the problem is related to the transmission, or due to some other cause.

References

• aamco.com
• familycar.com