Your engine requires regular auto maintenance to keep all of its gears functioning and fluids at optimal levels. In particular, the transmission is one of the more complex parts that may need a little more care. Here are a few signs to keep an eye out for to let you know when it’s time for transmission repair.

5 Signs You Need Transmission Repairs

1. Burning Smell

A burning smell while operating your vehicle may indicate that the transmission is overheating and its fluid has degraded. Transmission fluid breaks down over time. Without fluid to lubricate the system, its parts will scrape against each other, leading to overheating and a burning smell from the friction.

An overheated transmission will lose gear shifting power and damage its parts, so don’t ignore what your nose tells you.

2. Strange Engine Noises

When transmission fluid is low and results in grinding parts, you’ll likely hear abrasive or knocking sounds coming from the car’s engine while it’s in neutral or when you shift into drive. If you refill the fluid and still hear noises, have a mechanic inspect other parts, like the pump or torque converter.

3. Slipping Gears

Automatic transmissions shift through the different gears as you accelerate. When the transmission slips, you won’t be able to transfer power to the wheels, no matter how hard you push the pedal.

Slipping gears can be the result of low fluid or broken transmission belts. Don’t operate your vehicle if you notice the gears are slipping, and have it towed to your nearest mechanic.

4. Shaking

If your car shakes when you accelerate, it could be the result of low fluid levels, bad sparks plugs, or a clogged air filter choking your car’s engine. To identify if the problem is with your transmission, take your vehicle to a mechanic who can diagnose the cause. 

5. Leaking Fluid

Transmission fluid is red and sweet-smelling, which makes it easy to identify on the pavement or your garage floor. If you spot it, a leak is an easy fix, though it’s still something you should have done right away to avoid transmission damage. 

If you spot these signs of transmission trouble, bring your car to American Five Star Auto Repair & Transmission in Tempe, AZ. Since 1993, this auto shop has worked on cars, trucks, and SUVs, offering everything from wheel alignments to engine repairs. To make an appointment, call (480) 966-8181, or visit them online for more information on their transmission repair services.