How do you know if your transmission is going out?

A failing transmission can present itself in many different ways. Here are some of the most common signs that your transmission may be having issues:

1. Delayed Engagement

When you shift from Park to Drive or Reverse to Drive, your transmission should engage quickly and smoothly. If there is a noticeable delay before the transmission engages, that could be a sign of a problem.

A delayed engagement is usually caused by low transmission fluid or worn clutches. The time between shifting and the transmission engaging could be a few seconds or up to several minutes in severe cases.

2. Slipping Between Gears

As you accelerate, your transmission should shift up through the gears smoothly without any slipping. If you notice the engine revving higher than normal between shifts or feel soft shifts between gears, the transmission may be starting to slip.

Transmission slipping usually starts out very subtle, so you may not even notice it at first. It will typically get progressively worse over time as the transmission components continue to wear down.

3. Trouble Shifting Gears

Does your transmission struggle or grind when shifting in and out of gear? Do you have to double clutch to get it into gear? Does the shift lever feel loose and disconnected?

A grinding sound or feeling when shifting is usually caused by worn synchronizers inside the transmission. Double clutching is often needed when the synchronizers can no longer match the speed of the gears to allow smooth engagement.

A loose shifter can indicate mounting problems or worn shift linkage components. Any difficulty or grinding getting into and out of gear indicates your transmission needs to be looked at by a professional.

4. Check Engine Light

While not all transmission problems trigger the check engine light, some issues can cause diagnostic trouble codes to be stored in the vehicle’s computer. The check engine light can come on for various transmission issues like low fluid, slippage, solenoid problems, etc.

Connecting a scan tool to read the diagnostic codes can help narrow down the specific problem area if your check engine light comes on. Avoid driving the vehicle further until the exact cause is diagnosed if the transmission is suspected.

5. Burning Smell

There should never be any burning odor coming from your transmission. If you notice a burning smell, the transmission is likely critically low on fluid or an internal transmission component is overheating.

Pull over immediately if you notice a burning transmission smell, as driving the vehicle further can severely damage the transmission. Have the vehicle towed to your repair shop or mechanic.

6. Leaking Fluid

Transmission fluid leaks can develop from the transmission pan gasket, dipstick tube seal, lines, or the axle seals. Check under your vehicle regularly for any signs of leaking dark fluid.

Low fluid levels caused by a leak can damage the transmission over time. Have the leak inspected and fixed promptly to avoid ongoing fluid loss and more expensive repairs down the road.

7. Unusual Noises

Transmissions make whining and humming noises as they operate, which is completely normal. However, unusual sounds like grinding, rattling or clunking could indicate internal problems.

Unusual transmission noises usually start out faint and intermittent but get louder over time. It’s best to have any abnormal sounds inspected sooner rather than later before additional damage can occur.

8. Vibration or Shuddering

A vibrating or shuddering sensation when driving at highway speeds can point to issues with your transmission. Potential causes include low fluid, worn clutches, a torque converter problem, or internal mechanical problems.

A shuddering transmission often loses its ability to stay in overdrive on the highway. If ignored, the vibrations and shaking will become more prominent over time as the problem worsens.

9. Overheating

Transmission fluid not only keeps your transmission lubricated but also serves as a coolant. If the transmission fluid gets old and contaminated, it can cause overheating. Low fluid levels or a malfunctioning transmission cooler can also lead to overheating issues.

Watch your temperature gauge for signs of overheating. And check the underside of the transmission oil pan for any signs of overheating like burnt discoloration or warping.

10. Problems Shifting Into Park

Does your vehicle roll backwards when shifted into Park or it feels like it slips out of Park? This dangerous issue indicates internal damage or wear in the transmission.

Worn parking pawls inside the transmission will often feel like they are not fully engaging when you select Park. A professional repair shop should fix this issue promptly to avoid a potential roll-away accident.

What causes a transmission to fail?

There are several common causes of transmission failure to be aware of:

• Low fluid – Running low on transmission fluid can cause overheating, slipping, and grinding issues. Check levels regularly.
• Contaminated fluid – Transmission fluid that is old or dirty can clog valves and damage components.
• Electrical problems – Electrical issues like bad solenoids or wiring faults can prevent proper shifting.
• Torque converter failure – Common in high-mileage vehicles, the torque converter allows the transmission to shift smoothly.
• Clutch wear – The clutch discs and bands grip during shifts. Worn clutches cause slipping.
• Pump failure – Transmission pumps maintain fluid pressure. Failure leads to performance issues.
• Seal and gasket leaks – Leaking seals will cause low fluid levels, resulting in damage.

Transmission components are subject to high pressures, temperatures and constant wear. Regular maintenance and driving gently can maximize the life of your transmission.

How much does it cost to fix a transmission?

Transmission repair costs vary widely based on the extent of damage, vehicle make and model, and your location. Here are some averages:

• Fluid change – $150-$250
• Filter change – $250-$350
• Solenoid replacement – $350-$850
• Torque converter – $600-$1,200
• Clutch replacement – $1,500-$3,500
• Full rebuild – $2,500-$5,000
• Replacement transmission – $4,000-$8,000

Factors like requiring a transmission rebuild versus a full replacement can significantly increase the overall repair costs. Your exact repair costs will depend on the transmission type, how extensive the damage is, and your local labor rates.

How can you extend the life of your transmission?

Regular maintenance is key to get the longest transmission life possible. Here are some tips to help prolong your transmission:

• Check transmission fluid levels often using the dipstick – low fluid causes damage
• Change the transmission fluid and filter per your owner’s manual interval
• Use the recommended OEM fluid type – avoid universal or multi-vehicle fluids
• Drive gently – no jackrabbit starts or hauling heavy loads
• Allow transmission to fully warm up before driving hard
• Install an auxiliary transmission cooler if towing or hauling
• Address leaks promptly to prevent low fluid levels
• Listen and watch for early warning signs of issues

While transmissions are built to last long term, they are maintenance dependent. Follow your owner’s manual recommendations and fix small problems early to help your transmission go the distance.

How often should you change transmission fluid?

Here are some general transmission fluid and filter change intervals:

Vehicle Type	Fluid Change Interval
Older vehicle with over 75,000 miles	Every 25,000 miles
Newer vehicle under 75,000 miles	Every 50,000-75,000 miles
Heavy duty use – towing, livery, etc.	Every 15,000-25,000 miles
Extreme or severe conditions	Every 15,000-30,000 miles

Check your owner’s manual for the interval recommended by the manufacturer. Severe driving conditions, heavy loads, and high mileage may necessitate more frequent fluid changes.

Conclusion

Catching transmission problems early is key to avoid extensive repairs down the road. Know the common warning signs like slipping, hesitation, and leaks that can indicate your transmission is having issues. Change your fluid and filter regularly and address any problems promptly to maximize the lifespan of your vehicle’s transmission.