If you drive an automatic transmission vehicle, you may not think about the complexity of the mechanical engineering in this system when you get behind the wheel. While the automatic transmission is often taken for granted, this hard-working vehicle system performs a major function that makes driving easier and replaces the effort of the manual transmission.
In this month’s blog, we look at three automatic transmission issues and what to anticipate, as well as ways to keep your automatic transmission maintained.
How Does the Automatic Transmission Work?
The purpose of the transmission is simple – to ensure that your vehicle’s engine spins at the rate that is needed to speed up or slow down the vehicle while acting as the power relay between your vehicle’s engine and the drivetrain. When automatic transmissions were introduced, they took much of the work away from manual stick-shift driving. The automatic transmission works hard to determine the necessary gear and speed to keep your vehicle at a standstill or get up to and maintain cruising speed.
Automatic Transmission Issues
Like any other major component within the vehicle, the automatic transmission is subjected to ongoing wear and tear. This is especially true for the automatic transmission and the constant friction, heat, and energy that it endures.
Issue 1: Transmission Fluid is Low
The automatic transmission depends on transmission fluid to keep it well lubricated and help to control temperature. Transmission fluid is a sweet smelling and reddish fluid that keeps parts from wearing down quickly.
The fluid level should be checked periodically and replenished to the appropriate level to maintain the various transmission parts. Always check the fluid when the engine is warm, and the vehicle is parked on a level surface.
Issue 2: Transmission Fluid is Leaking
Although natural burn-off of transmission fluid is normal, a pervasive drop in fluid levels may signal that you have a leak somewhere in the transmission. The three more common locations for transmission fluid leaks are the cooler lines, one or more of the many seals in the system, or the transmission fluid pan gasket.
Fluid leaks may be visible pools or drip puddles under the vehicle, or the dashboard warning light may illuminate. Leaks need to be addressed sooner than later because if they continue, further damage may occur to the transmission.
Issue: Gear Damage or Wear
The variety of gears within the automatic transmission need to be aligned properly to perform their function. When the gears are worn from heat or increased friction, they will begin to malfunction and become misaligned.
The obvious signs of gear issues may include:
- Delayed acceleration or inability to shift into Reverse.
- Slipping of the transmission between gears.
- Shaking, grinding, or rough movement during acceleration.
The issues noted above are only a few of the problems that your automatic transmission may experience. The important thing to note is that any indication of a problem with your automatic transmission should be checked out immediately. Transmission repair is one of the more costly vehicle repairs and ignoring early signs can lead to further damage and a hefty repair bill.
Keeping Your Automatic Transmission Healthy
The best way to keep your automatic transmission healthy is through ongoing maintenance that includes the following:
- Checking Transmission Fluid Levels: Always check the levels when the engine is warm and add any necessary transmission fluid according to your specific vehicle requirements.
- Changing Fluid and Filter: Transmission fluid and the filter should be changed every 30K miles driven to keep it clean and effective.
If you think that you might have a problem with your automatic transmission, give the professionals at Shade Tree Automotive a call today to schedule a complete inspection.