Transmission Malfunction (Main Transmission Failure + More)


transmission malfunction

What are the main reasons for a transmission problem or failure? The transmission is a critical component of your vehicle’s performance, responsible for transferring power from the engine to the driveshaft and wheels.

A malfunctioning transmission can lead to costly repairs and even complete vehicle failure if not addressed promptly.

Below you can find the main reasons for transmission malfunction, which include:

1. Transmission Slipping

2. Burning Smell

3. Noises When in Neutral

4. Slipping Gears

5. Dragging Clutch

6. Leaking Fluid

7. Check Engine Light or Overdrive Light is On

8. Grinding or Shaking

9. Unusual Sounds

10. Unresponsive

In this article, we will discuss the common signs of transmission problems and how to deal with them to ensure your vehicle remains in optimal condition.

1. Transmission Slipping, Won’t Engage or Stay in Gear

Difficulty switching gears is one of the more obvious signs of problems in the transmission system. This issue may manifest differently depending on your vehicle’s transmission type.

In manual transmissions, grinding while shifting gears is common, while in automatic transmissions, the car may wobble between gears or experience jarring transitions into higher gears.

Possible Causes and Solutions

Low or incorrect types of transmission fluid could be the reason why your vehicle is refusing to switch gears. In some cases, the link holding the gears in place may have issues, requiring professional attention. In manual transmissions, a worn clutch may also cause gear slipping.

2. Burning Smell

A burning smell coming from your vehicle could indicate that your transmission is overheating, or the transmission fluid is old and burnt. This issue can lead to early wear, excess debris, and corrosion within the transmission system.

Possible Causes and Solutions

A burning smell may be caused by a fluid leak, trapped plastic, dripping antifreeze, or a melting heater core. If you suspect a transmission fluid leak, check the dipstick for proper fluid level and condition. In any case, it is essential to have the burning smell checked out by a professional to diagnose and address the problem.

3. Noises When in Neutral

Strange noises coming from your vehicle while in neutral may indicate transmission issues. In some cases, these noises may suggest that your car is ready for new transmission fluid, which a professional can flush and replace. However, it could also mean that your car requires further service by a professional auto mechanic, such as addressing issues with bearings or gear teeth.

Read also >> Can a Bad Throttle Body Cause Transmission Problems?

Read also >> Will Parking on a Steep Hill Damage the Transmission?

Read also >> Does Transmission Fluid Need To Be Changed? (Here Is Why)

4. Slipping Gears

Experiencing slipping gears while driving is not only alarming but also dangerous. You will know your transmission has slipped when you hear the engine revving during a gear change, often compared to driving over ice with no traction. Other symptoms of slipping gears include delayed acceleration, strange noises, and harsh responses when attempting to shift gears.

Possible Causes and Solutions

Low transmission fluid, contamination due to lack of maintenance or water intrusion, or internal wear and tear on the transmission parts can cause slipping gears. In such cases, professional diagnosis and repair are necessary to address the issue and prevent further damage to the transmission.

5. Dragging Clutch

A dragging clutch, which is more common in manual transmission vehicles, occurs when the clutch fails to disengage the clutch disk from the flywheel upon pressing the clutch pedal. This issue causes gears to clash and the car to move while shifting gears. A dragging clutch can be caused by mechanical failure or misplacement of the clutch.

Possible Causes and Solutions

A simple adjustment or bleeding may resolve clutch dragging if there are no hydraulic leaks. However, a worn clutch disc and pressure plate may require replacement.

6. Leaking Fluid

Leaking transmission fluid is one of the easiest transmission problems to identify. If you notice a red, sweet-smelling fluid underneath your car, it may indicate a leak from one of the cooler lines, a gasket, or a seal. This issue is not only bad for the transmission but can also be dangerous if the fluid leaks onto a hot surface.

Possible Causes and Solutions

Check your dipstick for proper fluid level and condition. If the fluid is low, there may be a leak that requires professional attention. Note that not all transmission fluid is red, and not all levels can be verified with a dipstick method; some may require special tools.

7. Check Engine Light or Overdrive Light is On

A check engine light is not solely dedicated to the engine. It can also indicate problems with the transmission, including overheating, solenoid problems, speed sensors, slipping transmission, and other issues. Having the trouble codes retrieved can help isolate the problem and provide a starting point for addressing the concern.

8. Grinding or Shaking

Grinding or shaking while shifting gears, especially in automatic transmissions, is often an indication of transmission problems. In such cases, it is crucial to have your vehicle inspected by a professional as soon as possible.

9. Unusual Sounds

Humming, whining, or clunking noises from your vehicle may be symptoms of transmission issues. These sounds should be addressed by a professional mechanic to diagnose and resolve the problem.

10. Unresponsive

If your car does not respond when attempting to change gears, especially from park to drive, it is likely due to a problem with the transmission. In such cases, professional diagnosis and repair are necessary to address the issue.

What to Do When Experiencing Transmission Problems

When troubleshooting, it is essential to double-check your fluid levels. If the issue is not a simple case of low fluid levels, it may be a mechanical problem.

If you are experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned above or have any other automotive repair-related concerns, please contact a professional mechanic or automotive service center for assistance.

In conclusion, being aware of the common signs of transmission problems and addressing them promptly can save you from costly repairs and prolong the life of your vehicle.

Regular maintenance and timely professional intervention can help ensure that your transmission remains in optimal condition and continues to provide a smooth driving experience.

How much does it cost to fix a transmission malfunction?

Transmission repair costs can vary depending on the severity of the issue. Minor repairs such as replacing a solenoid or sensor can cost a few hundred dollars. However, internal transmission failure can be a costly repair, with costs ranging from a few thousand dollars to over $5,000 for a complete transmission replacement.

Labor costs for removing or repairing a car transmission can range from $500 to $1,200. Therefore, it is recommended to take the car to a reliable auto repair shop with experienced staff and positive customer reviews to determine the root cause and get an accurate estimate for the repair cost.

It’s important to address any unusual noises, dashboard lights, or signs of transmission problems to avoid expensive repairs in the future.

How long do transmissions last?

Transmissions can last anywhere from just over 10,000 miles to over 200,000 miles, depending on factors such as regular maintenance, driving habits, and the type of transmission.

Automatic transmissions usually last around 150,000 to 200,000 miles, while manual transmissions tend to last longer but require clutch replacement, which can be costly.

Regular maintenance is crucial to extending the lifespan of a transmission, which includes regularly checking fluid levels and having it serviced, upgrading to synthetic fluid, considering a transmission cooler, and finding a quality repair shop.

Neglect and poor maintenance can cause transmissions to fail as early as 7,000 miles.

What sensors cause transmission problems?

There are several sensors and modules responsible for regulating the performance of automatic transmissions. The Transmission Control Module (TCM), Mass Airflow Sensor (MAS), Throttle Position Sensor (TP), Manifold Absolute Pressure Sensor (MAP), and Intake Air Temperature Sensor (IAT) regulate air/fuel mix, measure manifold pressure and engine load, and control transmission performance.

Failure or malfunctioning of these sensors and modules can cause symptoms like improper downshifts, delayed shifting response, slow acceleration, and random shifting between gears. In addition, the Transmission Range Sensor (TR) is responsible for telling the PCM the position of the transmission shifter and enables or disables gears accordingly.

When this sensor fails, the transmission can start in the wrong gear, no upshifts can occur, or it can feel like falling out of gear. The brake light switch, throttle position sensor, transmission speed sensor, wheel speed sensor, and coolant sensor, among others, can cause transmission problems as well.

Steve P.

Steve is an automotive technician, technical writer, and Managing Editor. He has held a lifelong passion for cars, with a particular interest in cars like the Buick Riviera. Steve is based in Boise, Idaho.

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