A slipping transmission happens when your vehicle switches gears on its own. The problem impedes your ability to adjust speed and undermines your safety while driving. As such, it’s best to bring your car in for transmission repairs as soon as you notice the problem. Here’s what you need to know to prevent future road mishaps.

What Are the Signs of a Slipping Transmission?

You’ll notice that your transmission slips when you drive. Aside from shifting on its own, other signs include difficulty changing gears, delays in acceleration, and the inability to reverse. It may also seem that your car struggles—even at RPMs above 3,500—while getting up to speed. Be on the lookout for a blinking check engine light, burning smells, and harsh noises like clunking or whining as you shift gears.

Why It Happens

Low Fluid Levels

Often traced to leaks in the closed transmission system, low fluid levels can result in problems like overheating and insufficient hydraulic pressure to engage gears. Overheating results in burnt fluid, which can be problematic to the transmission as well.

Worn Transmission Bands 

In an automatic transmission, bands hold the gears together. When they are worn out, changing gears feels a bit loose and causes bumpy shifts.

Damaged Clutches & Gears

Over time, clutches and gears sustain damage with normal wear and tear. When they’re worn beyond repair, they can cause tricky shifting.

Solenoid & Torque Converter Issues

Since the solenoid controls the flow of transmission fluid, any electronic issue or damage can result in incorrect amounts dispersed fluid, which leads to rough shifts. Similarly, a torque converter that doesn’t get enough fluid or has been worn out can cause your transmission to slip.

How to Fix & Prevent It

A transmission repair specialist will have to take apart everything to diagnose the source of the problem—something that requires experience and the right tools. The key to preventing a host of transmission problems, including slipping, is routine maintenance. Check transmission fluid levels frequently to spot issues like leakages and burnt or dirty fluids, and schedule a fluid change every 30,000 to 60,000 miles.

At the first signs of trouble, schedule transmission repairs at Quality Transmission Service. Serving the Anchorage, AK, community, their ASE®-certified mechanics have delivered top-notch auto maintenance services, specializing in transmission service and clutch repair. Call (907) 561-8767 to schedule an appointment or inquire about transmission repairs via their website.