Even if you drive your car everyday, many of its components can be a mystery. One of these less-familiar parts is the transmission system, which houses the gears that supply power to your wheels. As you accelerate and decelerate, the system switches between gears to deliver different amounts of power. Just like any other auto part, your transmission system may require repairs at some point. Here are some signs that this component needs expert care.

3 Signs You Need Transmission Service

1. Unusual Odor

Just like engine oil, transmission fluid coats the metal parts inside the system to limit friction and excessive heat. If the fluid is leaking out or hasn’t been replaced in a while, it may start to burn, resulting in an unpleasant, smoky odor. If you notice this scent, you’ll want to take your car in for service right away. Otherwise, your transmission might be damaged beyond repair.

2. Slipping Feeling

While your car needs to switch to different gears from time to time, it uses a clutch to hold on to certain gears when maintaining a consistent speed. However, when your transmission starts to deteriorate, the clutch might fail, causing your system to “slip” from gear to gear. You might feel a slight jolt if this happens while driving. Whether you need more fluid or a part replacement, a car repair technician can get to the bottom of this issue.

3. Strange Sounds

You might also determine the need for transmission repair just by listening. For example, if the clutch or gear synchronizers have been worn down, you might hear a low, grinding sound in a manual transmission vehicle. In an automatic vehicle, which should slide seamlessly from gear to gear on its own, you might notice a whine or hum, and feel the car vibrate as it shifts.

If you’ve identified any of these tell-tale signs, reach out to Mattie's Service Center of Milford, CT. This car repair team has over 50 years of experience, so they can easily pinpoint your car’s mechanical issues. Whether you’re dealing with a faulty transmission system or worn tires, you can turn to their ASE-certified technicians to restore your vehicle. To learn more about their services, visit the website, or call (203) 877-3701 to schedule an appointment.