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Vehicle transmission failures can be very costly to repair and may require you to buy a new car if you don’t maintain the system appropriately. However, there are ways to ensure your car’s safety and lifespan. Below are eight warning signs that it’s time to take your car to an auto repair shop to have its transmission inspected.

How to Tell If Your Transmission Is Failing

1. Whining & Grinding Noises

Whining or clunking noises coming from your engine indicates that it’s time to take your car into the auto repair shop. However, it’s easy for these symptoms to go unnoticed if they are infrequent. Be aware of any unusual noises coming from your engine and take your car to an auto repair shop promptly if you hear any unusual sounds.

2. Delayed Gear Change

In a car with a properly functioning automatic transmission, the gears should change automatically before your engine starts revving too loudly. If you notice your engine starting to rev higher or louder as you accelerate or decelerate, this could be a sign that your transmission is having difficulty changing gears.

3. Slipping Gears

A “slipping gear” occurs when your transmission fails to hold a gear and accidentally “slips” out of place when it’s not supposed to. You might feel a sudden lurch and hear your engine rev loudly when this happens. Take your car to a repair shop immediately, as a slipping gear can place unnecessary strain on your engine and cause serious damage and a breakdown.

4. Dragging Clutch

In vehicles with a manual transmission, a clutch will “drag” when it fails to disengage the clutch disk from the flywheel to enable you to change gears. This transmission issue can be dangerous when taking long trips and changing gears at high speeds.

5. Leaking Fluid

If you notice red liquid beneath your car after it has been parked for a few hours, you should take your car to an auto repair shop immediately, as leaking transmission fluid is a sure sign of an engine problem. It could be due to a cracked pipe or a larger transmission issue. 

6. Shaking Vehicle

A vibrating or shaking car could be a sign that your brakes need replacement, or your tires need to be rotated. However, if you notice your car shaking or vibrating, particularly when the car is in park, it can be a sign of a faulty or damaged transmission.

7. Strange Noises While in Neutral

When your car’s engine is in neutral, the sound of the engine should be constant. If your engine begins making strange noises while it’s in neutral, it’s definitely time to have your car inspected by a professional.

8. Check Engine Light Is On

Finally, as tempting as it might be to ignore a check engine light on your dashboard, you should always heed the warning. While a check engine light could mean something as benign as your car needing an oil change, it could also signal a much more serious mechanical issue.

 

If you worry that your transmission is failing, turn to GSBP Automotive in Gulf Shores, AL, for help. This auto repair center is your one-stop-shop for all your vehicle’s needs. They can provide both general upkeep and efficient emergency repairs. To learn more about their comprehensive auto repair services, visit their website or call (251)-968-7456.

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