Without a transmission, your car wouldn’t be able to shift gears, and the engine would quickly overheat. With a series of gears that shifts either manually or automatically, this component allows you to easily drive at the speed you want. As such, it’s crucial to take the proper steps to avoid transmission repairs. But how do you know if this car part is on the fritz? Here, our team at Fort Mitchell Garage, located in Covington, KY, shares some signs to watch for.

How to Tell if You Need Transmission Repairs

1. Shifting Gears Is Difficult

One of the telltale signs of transmission problems is when you start to find it difficult to shift gears. Your car may respond slowly, jerk as it shifts, fall out of gear, or even shift on its own. Any of these can mean serious problems, and you should take it to an auto repair shop for a checkup.

2. Strange Noises When Shifting Gears

Whether you drive an automatic or a manual transmission, problems can create weird noises when the gears shift. If your car falls into the former category, listen for a shaking or shimmying noise. Drivers with manual vehicles should keep an ear out for grinding sounds. 

3. Noise When It’s in Neutral

Even when the car is in neutral, the transmission should be working. If your vehicle is unusually noisy while it’s not in gear, a malfunctioning transmission could be the culprit. However, because problems with other components can also cause this, it’s essential to head to a mechanic for the proper diagnosis.

4. Leaking Fluid

Transmission fluid is red and has a sweet scent to it, so when you see pools of this liquid on your driveway, you may have a leak. This doesn’t necessarily mean your transmission is bad, but it does rely on that fluid to function properly and may need patching up.

5. Burnt Odor

If your car is producing a burnt smell, take note. Burning transmission fluid or burning caused by excessive gear friction could create this smell; both of these can eventually lead to a vehicle breakdown and expensive repairs. 

From oil changes to transmission repairs, here at Fort Mitchell Garage, we will keep your vehicle on the road. We even offer body work, including collision repairs and paint jobs. We’ve been fixing even the trickiest automotive problems for well over 100 years. Call us today at (859) 431-3326, or visit our website to learn more about our services.