Typically, vehicle transmissions are designed to work effectively and efficiently for many years. Depending on how vigorously you drive your vehicle, you can expect the transmission to last for 100,000 miles or more before you even start to see signs of failure. But at some point, your vehicle's transmission will start to show signs, some of which include strange smells and vehicle lurching. While you might be tempted to ignore these, they are in fact the early warning signs that your transmission is in need of repair. What are some other warning indicators that your vehicle's transmission is failing? Read on to find out.  

Warning Sign #1: Leaking Oil

Oil can be seen in your vehicle's transmission, differential, and engine. All serving different purposes, each car part is designed to use a specific type of oil. While an oil leak isn't too uncommon, if you notice huge puddles in your parking space where your vehicle had been parked, that could mean there is a serious problem. If that oil is reddish in color, we recommend that you immediately get your vehicle serviced for a transmission problem.

Warning Sign #2: Noticeable Grinding or Shaking Movement

If you experience any type of unusual vehicle movement or feeling (especially when you drive an automatic), it could be a strong indicator that something is wrong with your transmission. Scheduling a service with a local transmission specialist will help to decide what the cause of the grinding, shaking, and clanking could be.

Warning Sign #3: Continuous Whining and/or Humming

Driving your car (especially for a long time or for many miles) will cause stress and strain on the transmission. Like we mentioned above, your transmission should last for at least 100,000 miles, but should you start to notice a whining or humming noise, it's a warning sign that something isn't right. Whether the solution could be to fill up the oil levels or to replace a loose bearing, ignoring this noise will only lead to a bigger problem down the road.

Warning Sign #4: Check Engine Light

Vehicles are built with computers and sensors that constantly watch your vehicle. As soon as something starts to malfunction, an error code is sent to your vehicle's computer, and the check engine light will turn on. When this light turns on, it's important to take your vehicle to a specialist for diagnostic testing and repair.

Warning Sign #5: Delay in Gear Shifts

Shifting from gear to gear should be smooth. If you notice that there is a delay or stickiness during gear shifts, it's a problem that should be addressed. Why? This sign means that the transmission alignment is off and needs to be adjusted. Whether your car is old or is close to 100,000 miles, it's extremely important that you pay attention to the above signs. Should you notice that your vehicle has one of the above signs, we recommend taking your car into our Service Department, so our trusty team can address it right away. Image via Pixabay