Signs You May Need a Transmission Repair

Let’s start with the basics, what exactly is involved in your car’s transmission. Most of us don’t know the inner workings of our vehicle, unless an automotive technician were to explain it and usually when we are learning about it, it’s because we need it repaired. No one wants to hear that they may need a transmission repair done, so here are some signs to look out for.

Fluid: We have all heard of transmission fluid, right? Well this is one of the most important parts of an automatic transmission. 

What to Look Out for: A transmission fluid leak is usually red in color. If it needs to be changed,

it may appear more brownish. It will leak around the front and middle of the car. Pay attention if  your car is slow to start, or obviously not starting at all, you will need to bring your vehicle into an automotive repair shop to get it looked at.

Gears: Even with an automatic transmission, there are gears. Within your transmission, they are broken into main gears and planetary gears. All of these gears are necessary to avoid needing any sort of transmission repair.  
What to Look Out for: With manual transmissions, if you notice a grinding sound or feeling when you shift into a new gear, one of your transmission’s gear synchronizers may be damaged. With an automatic transmission, you may feel the car “shimmy” into each gear rather than a smooth shift.

Filter: The fluid in your transmission must be kept clean, and gunk- free to keep your transmission running smoothly. The filter in your transmission will help catch anything that isn’t supposed to be in there.
What to Look out for: When your transmission filter is clogged, the fluid won’t be able to circulate, causing the transmission to slip. When this happens, the gearshift may skip or you will notice rough shifting. Take your vehicle to an automotive repair shop if you notice any of these symptoms to schedule a transmission repair.

Bell Housing: If you were to take a look underneath your vehicle, you would see a cone shaped metal case, which is the bell housing for your transmission. In front-wheel-drive vehicles, it’s underneath the hood on the side of the engine.
What to Look out for: Be careful if you have a lower car and accidentally drive over any curb that you check to make sure this doesn’t crack. If it does crack it can begin leaking transmission fluid and you will need to get your transmission repaired, or possibly replaced. 

Noticing any of these problems with your vehicle? Has your “check engine” light turned on? Contact Cunningham’s Automotive Repair to take care of any transmission repairs you may need. Not to mention, getting your automotive transmission regularly serviced at Cunningham’s will help prevent any costly transmission repairs in the future. Call today at 610-847-6006 or schedule an appointment online.