Transmission Replacement - Top Symptoms of a Bad Transmission

No one wants to hear that they need a transmission replacement, but sometimes it is simply necessary in order to keep driving your car. Sometimes you can get it repaired, if you catch the issue early on, but you may end up needing it replaced entirely. Learn some of the signs that you need this car part replaced, or at least heavily repaired.

One of the main signs of a problem is that you notice a puddle of fluid under your vehicle when it is parked. The fluid that comes out of this part should be red, so that is how you know what it is. However, if you have not changed it in a long time, it could be cloudy or even black since it has been burnt. Either sign means that you should get this area checked out soon to avoid needing a complete transmission replacement. If you notice the puddle of fluid has metal pieces in it, it is probably too late and you need to replace this section of the car.

If your vehicle makes odd noises, it may be a sign that you need some help from a car expert. Many parts make strange noises when they need to be repaired or replaced, but this area tends to make a grinding noise when it needs to be fixed. This is especially true if you mostly hear the sound when you switch gears.

Similarly, abnormal motions from the auto indicate that you need transmission replacement or repair. If the vehicle vibrates when shifting gears or when you try to accelerate, you need some help from an auto professional. In some cases, the car seems to jolt when you shift instead of smoothly switching from one gear to another, or the engine seems to be racing but the auto is not in the necessary gear, or is not moving at all.

In some severe cases, the auto does not move forward or backward. This usually means you need a complete transmission replacement. That is because this part of the vehicle is what makes it all go back and forth, so if this area is damaged beyond repair, you cannot move at all. You will probably notice small issues before this major problem even occurs, though, so hopefully you can avoid this. For example, the vehicle will likely jolt or vibrate when you shift, and if you do not get this issue checked out, the next step is for it to stop shifting completely so that you cannot go anywhere.

At this point, you will probably need it towed to the nearest auto repair shop so you can get a transmission replacement. Though this can be quite costly, you should find some ways to pay for it without having to wait years to save up money. Ask about payment plans, or find out if there are used parts that can be utilized during the repairs. At least get a quote before anything is done so you know you can afford the work.