Transmission problems may start off small, but if the problem isn’t repaired it will become worse and replacing the transmission can be extremely expensive. Proper maintenance will help to prevent transmission problems, but if you own the vehicle for a long period of time or you if have bought a used vehicle, eventually the vehicle will develop some type of transmission problems. For this reason, it is important to recognize the signs of a problem and take your vehicle in for transmission repair in Minneapolis as soon as possible. Here are a few signs your vehicle may have a transmission problem.
Fluid Leak
The transmission should never leak fluid. If you notice red spots or small puddles of dark red fluid under the vehicle, it’s typically a sign of leaking transmission fluid. The longer the transmission operates without sufficient fluid, the greater the risk of it failing altogether, so it’s best to take the vehicle to the shop for transmission repair in Minneapolis as soon as possible.
Clunking Noise
There are several problems that may cause a clunking noise under the hood of your vehicle, but if you hear a whining, rattling or clunking sound, especially when putting the vehicle in gear, it may be due to a problem with the transmission fluid. The transmission fluid is responsible for lubricating the gears, but over time the fluid may breakdown, which prevents it from eliminating friction in the gears. If there is friction, it can damage the mechanical components of the transmission system. So, if you notice any unusual sounds, it’s important to take the vehicle to a transmission repair shop as soon as possible.
Doesn’t go Into Gear
One of the first signs of a transmission problem is when the vehicle doesn’t immediately go into gear. In serious situations, the vehicle will not shift into gear at all. In this situation, check the level of the transmission fluid and if it’s low, top it off. If the issue is simply low transmission fluid, the vehicle should smoothly go into gear. However, if you are still having problems, you should have a transmission repair shop inspect the vehicle to determine what the problem is. In some situations, the computer system needs to be reset, which is often a quick fix by a qualified mechanic.
The check engine light is designed to alert you of potential problems, but it can indicate an array of issues from different parts of the vehicle, not just the engine. If your check engine light comes in, it may be detecting a small problem with the transmission, but keep in mind that small problems often end up being large, expensive problems when they aren’t repaired right away. So, the best solution is to take the vehicle to a transmission shop at the first sign of a problem.
For quality transmission repair in Minneapolis, contact Richfield Transmission & Auto Repair Center.