Your car's transmission transfers power from the engine to the wheels. While it can experience various problems with age or use, one of the most common is overheating. Being able to spot warning signs of this issue early on will allow you to get to a mechanic before any severe or costly damage can occur.

How to Tell If Your Transmission Is Overheating

1. Burning Transmission Fluid

A transmission uses fluid to create hydraulic pressure to make the internal parts work. As the fluid moves through the system, it lubricates metal parts to prevent them from grinding against one another while also absorbing the heat they produce. 

Over time, the liquid will gradually break down and become less effective at reducing friction. The natural oxidation process will begin to darken its bright red shade. Eventually, it could start to burn and become black. If it reaches this stage, it won’t cool the transmission. Instead, it will produce a harsh, acrid odor that you can smell inside the cabin. 

2. Shifting Delays

When the transmission fluid is low, it will reduce the hydraulic pressure in the system. This makes it difficult for your car to move from one gear to the next seamlessly, prompting it to stay in lower gears for longer than usual. As the torque in first, second, and third gear is greater, driving the vehicle at speeds more suitable to fourth gear will cause the transmission and engine to overheat. 

3. Slipping Gears

For the same reasons described above, old and contaminated fluid makes it difficult for the transmission to stay in the right gear, potentially creating a dangerous situation if you are driving in fourth gear at high speeds. Slipping into a lower setting could cause the vehicle to stop accelerating and become difficult to control. 

If you’ve noticed these issues, bring your car to B G & S Transmissions. For more than 27 years, these auto mechanics have provided dependable, friendly, and honest transmission services to drivers in Lincoln, NE. Their trained technicians have over 100 years of combined experience, and all of their work is backed with their in-house warranties. Call them at (402) 435-3637 for a free tow or to schedule an appointment. Visit them online to learn more about their services.