Learning About Auto Services

Your car's transmission transfers the engine's power to the wheels of the vehicle, allowing you to drive at different speeds. While undertaking regular vehicle maintenance will help keep it in tiptop running condition, transmission problems can crop up at any time. When this happens, you'll need to carry out the necessary transmission repair.

Low transmission fluid level is one of the most common causes of transmission trouble. Here's how to know you're running low on transmission fluid.

1. Transmission Fluid Leakage

Transmission fluid is the lifeblood of your vehicle's transmission. Without it, the transmission will be starved of the juice it needs to stay healthy.

If you can spot drips or puddles of bright, translucent, vibrant red fluid underneath your car, you might have transmission fluid leaks. You should have the leaks identified and repaired before replenishing the fluid level.

If the leaks aren't detected and repaired in good time, they can cause transmission fluid levels to drop to the point where permanent transmission damage may occur.

2. Transmission Noises

When it's working correctly, your transmission system should operate as silently as possible. If you hear loud or unusual noises coming from your transmission during gear engagement and disengagement, this is an indication that the transmission may not be well lubricated due to insufficient transmission fluid.

3. Difficulty Shifting Gears/Slipping Gears

Are you having trouble shifting from one gear to another or staying in gear? Your car requires a sufficient amount of transmission fluid to ensure the smooth operation of the gears. If your car won't shift into new gear or stay in the desired gear, it's most likely you're running low on transmission fluid.

4. Transmission Overheating

Just as your car's engine overheats when it's running low on oil, so too will your transmission run too hot when it's lacking transmission fluid. The overheating may be accompanied by a burning smell due to increased friction between transmission parts. 

If the transmission temperature warning light on your car's dashboard comes on while driving, checking your transmission fluid level is a good way to start the troubleshooting process. 

Getting your transmission fluid level checked from time to time is essential to keep your transmission healthy and running well. While checking your transmission fluid level, it's important to check the fluid's color and condition too. Transmission fluid gets dirty and old over time and will need to be replaced. If you observe the above signs of transmission trouble, don't hesitate to visit the nearest auto mechanic for transmission repair service.