Symptoms of Car Transmission Failure
A car transmission is a vital mechanical component of car operation. Along with the engine, the transmission allows a car to move--both forward and backward--at various speeds. Here is a list of some of the more common signs and symptoms of car transmission failure.
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Transmission Slippage
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A classic sign of a failing car transmission is transmission gear slippage. When a car is accelerated, especially from a stop, a normal transmission will allow for smooth, even acceleration and transmission gear function. A transmission that slips out of gear will impede acceleration and increase engine rpm, which are signs that the transmission is beginning to fail.
Transmission Surging
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A transmission that surges, or lurches, while a car is driven is a sign of transmission failure. At steady driving speeds, when a transmission is in a set gear, there should be no shifting or jerky transmission movements. A faulty transmission will often cause a car to surge or lurch as it engages and then disengages with the engine drivetrain.
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No Transmission Action
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If a transmission fails to engage in any gear--from "Park" to "Drive" or from "Park" to "Reverse"--it is highly likely that there is some major transmission damage and/or dysfunction that needs to be addressed.
Transmission Leaks
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A transmission that leaks a large amount of transmission fluid, both during operation and/or when not in use, is a common sign of transmission failure. A transmission has many seals and gaskets that can crack, break or degrade, all of which can lead to transmission fluid loss and catastrophic transmission failure.
Burned/Murky Transmission Fluid
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Transmission fluid is vital to the operation and functionality of a car transmission. Transmission fluid keeps all of the inner transmission parts lubricated, and reduces friction and heat. Transmission fluid that is burned or murky in appearance, or one that has small metal chips in it, signifies that a transmission is headed for disaster and quite possibly total transmission failure.
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