Your car’s transmission is one of the most important — and complex — components of the entire vehicle. It’s responsible for transferring power from the engine to the wheels, allowing you to shift gears and control speed. When your transmission isn’t working correctly, your entire driving experience on the roads in Belleville, IL can suffer. Worse, ignoring early signs of trouble can lead to costly repairs or even total failure. Here are five warning signs that your transmission may need professional attention.
Slipping Gears
A clear and common indicator of transmission issues is slipping gears. If your car unexpectedly changes gears while you’re driving or has trouble staying in gear, it’s a red flag. You might feel a sudden jerk or hesitation, and the engine may sound like it’s revving without delivering power. This can be dangerous, especially at high speeds, and typically points to worn transmission bands, low fluid, or internal damage.
Delayed or Rough Shifting
If your vehicle hesitates when shifting from park to drive or reverse, or if the gear changes are noticeably rough and jarring, your transmission may be struggling. Automatic transmissions should shift smoothly and almost unnoticeably. Any harsh transitions or long pauses could indicate issues with your transmission fluid, sensors, or internal components.
Unusual Noises
Whining, humming, or clunking noises that come from underneath your car are never a good sign. A healthy transmission should operate quietly. If you start hearing strange sounds—especially when the car is in neutral or while shifting gears—it may be due to fluid issues, worn bearings, or more serious internal problems.
Leaking Transmission Fluid
Your car’s transmission fluid is typically a bright red and has a sweet smell to it. If you spot a reddish puddle or wet spots under your car, particularly near the middle of the vehicle, you may have a leak. Unlike motor oil, transmission fluid should never be low unless there’s a problem. A leak not only affects performance but can cause extensive damage if not addressed quickly by a professional near Belleville, IL.
Warning Lights
Many modern vehicles are equipped with sensors that detect transmission problems. If your dashboard lights up with the check engine light or a transmission-specific warning, don’t ignore it. While it might not always mean major trouble, it’s your car’s way of telling you that something isn’t right. You might need transmission repair.
If your transmission needs repaired and you are looking for a auto repair expert near Belleville, IL, call Marshall’s Transmission Service!
