Auto Shop Answers: What Causes Transmission Failure?
The cause of transmission failure can caused by a number of problems. The auto shop at Terry’s Auto explains the most common causes. Read more info here.
Advice from our Auto Shop: Transmission Failure Causes
At Terry’s Auto Service and Towing, we believe that the first line of defense against car trouble is a good offense. Understanding how your car runs and which warning signs you should be looking for can greatly impact your future need for towing or repairs. While everyone at our auto shop loves getting to know our clients, what we want most is to keep you and your family safe on the road. Today, our auto shop safety topic is all about transmission failure and how it occurs.
What is a transmission?
The transmission in your car delivers power from your engine to your wheels, allowing you to get from point A to point B. By understanding what can cause damage to your transmission and recognizing warning signs early, you can avoid a serious accident and save money on additional auto shop visits later. Take a look at some of the most common causes of transmission failure.
Leaking Fluid
When your vehicle begins to leak fluid from your transmission, it is generally due to a damaged or deteriorating oil pan. A loose sensor, plug, or O-ring can also be at fault. The cost of the repair will depend on which part needs work.
If you don’t see the fluid leaking out directly beneath your vehicle when it is parked, you may smell it burning off when your car heats up. It is important to visit an auto shop as soon as you realize your transmission has been damaged. The earlier you have the leak looked at, the sooner you’ll be back on the road in tip-top condition.
Incorrect Fluid Levels
While low fluid tends to be a more common reason for transmission troubles, high fluid levels will also cause problems. When overfilled, fluid begins to bubble over causing foam to form in the transmission lines.
Fortunately, this is a far easier fix than when your transmission is leaking. Take your vehicle to an auto shop, and describe the trouble you’ve been noticing. A technician will rectify the problem by either removing excess fluid or adding more so that your transmission is full, but not overflowing.
Clogged Filter
Most of the troubles with your transmission stem from the fluid inside of it. This means that when your filter quits working, so does the fluid. A clogged filter can cause damage when the transmission overheats or grinds and stops.
You may notice that your filter is clogged because your car will no longer switch gears right away, or at all. Oxidized transmission fluid is terrible for your vehicle, and can cause further damage to the engine.
An Auto Shop with Answers
At Terry’s Auto Service and Towing, we want you and your car to be safe. For more helpful auto shop advice on transmission failure or for information on our various services, we invite you to contact us today!
