Most Common Transmission Problems

Your car's transmission is just like the mitochondria of a cell: It's the powerhouse. Because your car's transmission is the hardest-working part of your vehicle, it will take on a great deal of wear and tear caused by friction and heat when converting speed and torque while driving.

It's important to know about some of the most common transmission problems drivers may face so you can keep your vehicle operating optimally.

At Prestige Subaru, we've compiled a list of six of the most common transmission problems for you to be aware of while you're driving. If you're experiencing any of these problems, make sure to schedule a service appointment immediately at Prestige Subaru. We'll be happy to get the powerhouse of your vehicle running smoothly again.

Check Engine Light

We may all have seen our check engine light come on at one time or another. There are a variety of different reasons to see this light illuminated on our car's dashboard, but a problem with the vehicle's transmission is a big one. 

Many drivers go about their daily driving routine with the check engine light on, blinking, or disappearing for a portion of time then reappearing again without taking any action. If you notice that this light comes on and is beginning to do so more frequently, make sure you schedule a service appointment with your NJ car dealer, Prestige Subaru, to eliminate the opportunity of unwanted damage to occur.

Burning Smell

If you find that your vehicle is starting to emit a burning smell, it could be for a variety of different reasons. Although a burning smell from breaks, the clutch, an electrical shortage, or oil can occur, it's also possible that your car's transmission is in danger.

If you're experiencing a burning smell, such as that of burning fluid, your transmission may be trying to tell you that the fluid levels are low in your vehicle or have been burnt up by the friction and heat produced from speed and torque conversion. In any case, you want to bring your vehicle to a NJ service department as soon as possible to prevent further damage.

Leaking Fluid

Fluid is a vital part of a transmission's survival. It's used to keep the transmission running smoothly during its operations, lubricate parts, and cool the transmission itself. The more your car's transmission is lubricated, the more likely it is to not overheat and maintain the maximum life expectancy.

If you're experiencing problems with your transmission because it's not running normally, check for fluid leaks. If you notice a dark red fluid underneath your vehicle, that's a good indicator that your transmission fluid is leaking and requires immediate attention.

Response Time

Another common transmission problem is response time. Have you noticed that your car isn't shifting gears well? Is there a delay in shifting your vehicle from park to drive? If so, your transmission is probably not working to its full capacity.

Lack of response is also another signal of transmission problems. If your vehicle is slow to respond when shifting gears or is unresponsive, your transmission isn't working properly and should be taken to a service department immediately.

Gear Slipping

Transmission issues often provide trouble for drivers as far as staying in gear or shifting gears while driving. Gear slipping is when the vehicle easily shifts but struggles staying in the correct gear. While driving, a poor transmission will drop out of gear and require more pressure than normal to shift back into the correct gear. The extra pressure provided to maintain gear shifting may also cause a grinding or shaking feeling when transitioning.

Although a small indicator such as a check engine light could mean a problem with your car's transmission, you don't want to wait until you're having trouble shifting gears or smelling burning fluid to have your transmission checked.

If you're experiencing any of the warning signs above, make sure you visit your local NJ service department at Prestige Subaru. Our team of highly trained service technicians will be happy to help you on your way to a healthier transmission and a smoother ride!