How to Troubleshoot Automatic Transmissions
An automatic transmission converts linear motion into rotational force. Unlike a manual transmission, an automatic transmission uses computers and a torque converter to connect the engine to the transmission. Because of its highly complex nature, only mechanics who specialize in transmissions should attempt to work on them. If you are having problems with your vehicle moving forward or backward, you'll want to troubleshoot the automatic transmission before sending it in for repairs.
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Instructions
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Open the hood and remove the transmission dip stick. Wipe off the end of the dip stick with a rag. Reinsert the dipstick all the way into the filler neck and pull it back out again. Check the oil level on the end of the dip stick. The oil level should be between the upper and lower marks on the end of the dip stick. If it is not, fill the transmission through the filler neck (use a funnel) with oil until the oil level is between the upper and lower marks on the dip stick.
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Turn the engine on and shift the vehicle into neutral.
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Listen for any clunking sounds as you shift. If the transmission makes any noises as you are shifting, and the oil level is between the upper and lower marks on the dip stick, you could have a loose motor mount or a loose transmission mount.
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Let your foot off the brake slowly, but do not press the accelerator. The vehicle should creep forward. If it does not, this indicates a problem with the vehicle's torque converter.
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Press on the accelerator. If your vehicle bucks or hesitates, this could indicate a problem with the torque converter locking up properly.
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Press on the accelerator. If your vehicle starts moving but slips out of gear, this is an indication of a work clutch in the torque converter or damaged gear teeth or gears. You may need a new torque converter, new transmission or new transmission gears.
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Tips & Warnings
For specific information about troubleshooting your vehicle's automatic transmission, consult the particular vehicle's manual (see Resources).
Resources
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Comments
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I have a problem with my 2006 Jeep Grand J. This does not happen all the time. sometimes its 3 to 4 weeks apart before it happens again. I will be driveing along at about 60 mph. And all of a sudden the passenger side front. Feels like I'm getting a flat tire. that area of the car will start viberating terrible. You can feel it in the steering wheel and the passeger side dash board. I will pull the car over to the side of the road for a couple minutes , And than continue on and the viberation is gone. and it may not happen for another 3 to 4 weeks. Almost feels like the tire is going to fall off. I have taken it to the shop and no one seems to be able to figure out the cause of this. Could this be the Transmission Sensor, Or could it be a Axel problem? I have had it up on the rack and the mechanic says everything seems to be tight. Please if there is anyone out there that has ever had this type of problem. I would be very grateful if you could let me know what you did to resolve the problem.
