In order to ensure that your automatic transmission lasts for a long time, it is important to maintain it and get it serviced on a periodic basis. If in case there is a problem with your automatic transmission, it is important to get it rectified immediately so that you don’t have to go to the extent of getting it completely replaced. There are a number of symptoms which can alert you to the fact that there is some problem with your transmission and it requires immediate attention. It is critical to be aware of what steps you should take for an effective automatic transmission diagnosis. Let’s have a look.
Symptoms of Automatic Transmission Problems
Before going for an automatic transmission diagnosis, you should first be able to identify the symptoms. Below are a few symptoms which indicate problems in your automatic transmission system:
- When there is a problem with the transmission, you will experience slipping or vibrating sensation when you switch the gears.
- Take notice when you put shift into park or reverse. If you feel there is a delay or if you feel the transmission is not getting engaged at all, then you need to get it checked.
- Check if there is any fluid leakage under the car, especially, if it is accompanied by a burning smell.
- Apart from leakage, low fluid is also an indicator of a problematic transmission.
- Your vehicle will have a “Check Engine” option which will light up if there is anything wrong with the engine. One of the reasons could be a problem with the transmission.
- If you feel that your gears are slipping, then it is a serious transmission problem which requires immediate attention.
- A potential transmission problem can also be concluded if you hear your car making weird noises such as clunking, humming, or whining.
Steps to follow for Automatic Transmission Diagnosis
The below 5-step process can help you in effective automatic transmission diagnosis.
- The first step is to identify the problem and this can be done by keeping the above-listed symptoms in mind. Once the problem is identified, you can think of options to resolve it.
- Most of the transmission problems occur due to low levels or ineffective fluid. Which is why the second step should be to check the transmission fluid. You need to check the level of fluid as well as the condition of the fluid. In case of low levels, you can add in more fluid, and if the fluid looks brown or black and smells burnt, then you should get a filter and fluid change done.
- If you observe that even after replacing the fluid and filter, there is still some problem, then the next step is to check for OBD codes in your car’s on-board computer. If you do not have an on-board computer, you can always take your car to the nearest service centre and get a proper automatic transmission diagnosisdone.
- If there are no OBD codes and you have not found any solution, then the next step is to refer to the repair manual of the website of your car’s manufacturer. You might be able to find a best solution for your transmission problem.
- The final step in your automatic transmission diagnosis is to seek help from a professional. If you have been unsuccessful in finding the problem and its solution, then it is best to consult a professional who can do the needful.
Whether your transmission problem is minor or major, never ignore it, as doing so will only increase your expenses. A small problem, if left for long, will have you spending lots of money either on repairing or replacing the transmission.
