Transmission problems can run the gamut from new noises to difficult shifting. The first step to fixing the issue is to understand what may be going on inside the transmission, whether it’s a problem with fluid or worn components. Don’t let shifting issues continue — take time to check key parts of your vehicle and head to a trusted professional if you suspect it’s time for repairs.
Do You Drive a Manual Transmission?
Not all transmissions are built alike. If you drive a manual transmission, you may run into different problems than if you own an automatic. While either can have issues during gear shifts, the underlying repair may not be the same. Pay attention to which symptoms you notice and when — then you can start to figure out which repairs your vehicle may need.
Which Symptoms Have You Noticed?
While shifting issues may most catch your attention when it’s more difficult to shift gears, new noises, smells, and other signs are also important to pay attention to. Each change in your car’s performance can help point you in the right direction. Do you only notice problems with certain gears? Do you feel a difference in the clutch pedal? With manual transmission vehicles, you’re more likely to run into issues with the clutch, including difficulty shifting, clunking or grinding, and noises when sitting in Neutral.
Neutral Noises? You May Need a New Input Shaft Bearing
A noisy transmission is a clear sign repairs are needed. Most likely, one or more of the transmission’s bearings need to be replaced. Try shifting into neutral and listening for sounds. If there’s noise in neutral that goes away in other gears, the most likely cause is a worn-out input shaft bearing. On the other hand, if noises continue as you press the clutch pedal, it may be a bad release or pilot bearing.
Grinding Gears? There May Be Worn Gear Parts or a Dragging Clutch
Hear a grinding sound when you shift gears? This is one of the most common signs of trouble with a manual transmission and likely indicates worn gear components, though it could also mean the linkage needs to be replaced or adjusted. On the other hand, if you only hear grinding when downshifting, it may be an issue with the synchronizer, which adjusts shaft speeds and aligns gears as you shift.
Difficult Shifting? It May Be Time for a New Linkage or a Clutch Repair
If you’re having trouble shifting gears, it’s a clear sign there’s a problem with either the transmission or clutch. Pay attention to timing. If it’s difficult to shift between gears whether or not the engine is running, the linkage may be to blame. On the other hand, if it’s only difficult when the engine is running, it’s more likely to be a clutch problem. In either case, have a mechanic inspect the system so any issues are repaired as soon as possible.
Do You Drive an Automatic Transmission?
If you own an automatic transmission vehicle, common problems differ, as well as some symptoms you may notice. While manual transmissions are highly mechanical, automatic transmissions rely more on electronic components and sensors, combined with hydraulic pressure and mechanical parts. While some symptoms may be similar, the most common issue with an automatic transmission is less likely to be mechanical and more likely to involve fluid problems.
Which Symptoms Have You Noticed?
When there’s a problem with your automatic transmission, you may notice several symptoms or changes in your car’s performance, including erratic shifting or new sounds and smells. Hear a humming or whining sound? Does your vehicle shake when shifting gears? Do you have trouble getting full acceleration power? While mechanical parts may be to blame, bad transmission fluid is the most common cause of issues with automatic vehicles.
Check the Transmission Fluid Condition & Level
The most common cause of issues with automatic transmission vehicles is bad or low fluid. As you shift gears, transmission fluid is responsible for lubricating moving parts, minimizing heat-generating friction, and creating hydraulic pressure that allows gears to fully engage. If the fluid becomes too low, old, or contaminated, you may notice issues including hesitation during acceleration, difficulty shifting between Drive and Reverse, or strange sounds while driving.
Check Sensors & Electronic Components
Alongside fluid issues, worn sensors or faulty electronic components may be to blame for your car’s poor acceleration. Oxygen sensors and mass airflow sensors help control how much air and fuel are sent into the engine for combustion. If your vehicle is hesitating each time you drive, it may not be the transmission — instead, you may need to have a sensor replaced.
Keep a Smooth-Shifting Transmission By Visiting AAMCO
No matter what type of transmission your vehicle has, the sooner you have potential problems fixed, the better. Difficult shifting, poor acceleration, and other signs of transmission trouble shouldn’t be ignored. Often, it’s a simple fix when caught early, but it may grow into a much larger repair when left alone for too long. Keep your vehicle operating at its best with a visit to your local AAMCO Louisville mechanics. Schedule your appointment with us today!