Clues That Tell You That The Transmission Is Failing

It is imperative for you to be well aware of any clues that could lead you to take your vehicle in for an inspection at a transmission shop. You want to make sure that you are catching onto the problem as soon as small issues start to arise, since this could better your chances of getting the transmission repaired. However, the longer a failing transmission runs without the required repairs, the more damaged it will become and therefore, the more expensive it will be to repair. In some cases, it could become so bad that repair work is simply out of the question and you will need a new one installed. In order to hopefully avoid that, you will want to review the following:

There Is A Delay Between The Shifting Of Gears

Whether you are going from park to reverse or from reverse to drive, there should not be any hesitation. If you have started to notice that there is a delay before the vehicle engages, you need to have it checked out by a transmission mechanic. This needs to be done even if the delay appears to be minor or if it only happens occasionally.

There Is A Transmission Fluid Leak

Don't make the mistake of assuming that transmission leaks are normal and that they are to be expected once a vehicle reaches a certain age. No matter how old your vehicle is, it should never leak transmission fluid. If it is leaking fluid, there is a problem that needs to be quickly resolved. You could try to continue checking the transmission fluid level and adding more as needed, but that might not be enough to stop the transmission from locking up. The leak could suddenly, and without warning, get a lot worse and you would be driving with no fluid. This could cause the transmission to lock up and you would no longer be able to move the vehicle. At that point, the transmission is almost worthless and you might be stuck having to purchase a new one or a rebuilt transmission.

Should you find that you are experiencing any of the previously mentioned signs of transmission trouble, you will want to cease driving the vehicle and schedule an appointment with a transmission repair shop. If possible, you should try to have the vehicle towed to the shop. The reason is that the more you drive it, the more likely it is that you will suddenly find yourself stranded on the side of the road because the transmission finally and completely gave out.