The engine might be the heart of your vehicle, but it depends on the transmission to transfer the power it creates to the road. These vital components are extremely complex, with hundreds of moving parts that will eventually wear out. While a skilled transmission professional can repair many minor issues, in some cases replacing the gearbox entirely is the safer, more affordable option. Below are a few signs your car is in need of a new transmission.

3 Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Transmission

1. Strange Noises

A healthy transmission should be completely silent, whether it’s changing gears or cruising. Clunking, grinding, or banging noises when it shifts gears are usually a sure sign that internal components are failing. Many failing transmissions also produce a high-pitched whining sound, which can be caused by clogged filters or misaligned gears.

2. Hesitating or Slipping Gears

Over time, the teeth in the gears or the clutch itself will wear down and cause your transmission to behave erratically. Your car might hesitate before shifting, or shudder when it’s trying to change gears.

In extreme cases, your transmission might slip out of gear entirely, which can be extremely dangerous at high speeds. A car that has trouble shifting may be unsafe to drive, so have it checked by a transmission professional immediately.

3. Fluid Leaks

Just like your engine, transmissions depend on clean oil to keep parts lubricated and absorb the intense heat these machines create. If you see fluid puddling under your vehicle, your transmission may have a leak that could leave oil levels dangerously low.

A transmission fluid leak can be relatively easy to fix, or it may stem from a broken gasket or other, more serious problem. If your transmission has suffered serious damage because of insufficient lubricant, your technician may recommend rebuilding or replacing the entire component.

If your vehicle isn’t shifting like it used to, the transmission professionals at Mr. Transmission will identify the problem and get you back on the road safely. They’ve been serving Cincinnati drivers for over 15 years, proudly offering excellent results on almost any type of domestic or import vehicle. Visit their website for more on their wide range of services, follow their Twitter for more automotive tips, or call (513) 769-3111 for an appointment with one of the area’s top transmission professionals.