The transmission system is an essential component of your car. Transmission problems could compromise the vehicle's performance. They could also lead to engine problems such as overheating. Read the extract below to understand common gearbox problems and how you can prevent them.
Overheating
Your transmission fluid overheats when you overwork the transmission. For instance, this might occur if you exceed the vehicle's towing limits. People that live in hot climates may also experience this problem. There are several ways to detect an overheating transmission. Some cars (especially those with a continuously variable transmission) have a transmission overheating light. You may also experience transmission slipping, burnt transmission fluid or low fluid levels.
Do not push your car if you think the transmission is overheating. Preferably, park for a few minutes and wait for the system to cool. Avoid this problem by changing your transmission fluid and coolant on time. Also, you could install a deep pan to increase the amount of transmission fluid in the system.
Low Fluid Levels
Low fluid levels are a symptom of transmission leaks. Below are a few reasons why your transmission could be leaking:
- Damage, wear and tear may puncture the transmission pan, allowing the fluid to leak.
- Broken and worn-out seals in the transmission pan, input or output shaft and the driveshaft could cause leakage problems.
- A broken torque converter could also cause transmission leaks.
- You will experience leaks if the fluid lines are damaged.
Slipping Gears
'Slipping' happens when the vehicle is unable to shift gears. One example is when you engage the reverse gear and the car won't reverse. The vehicle may also downshift unexpectedly. For example, it could slip into third or second gear as you drive on the highway.
Gear slippage could be caused by low fluid levels or an overheating transmission. It could also be caused by damaged clutches or gears, a worn-out solenoid, broken transmission bands or a broken torque convertor.
Automatic Gearbox Maintenance Tips
Below are a few automatic transmission maintenance tips:
- Use the right transmission fluid. Check the user manual or consult your mechanic.
- Regularly check the transmission fluid levels. Take your vehicle to the garage if you notice a black-grey fluid or debris in the transmission.
- Always use the right gears, and do not overload the vehicle.
- Service the transmission system to replace worn-out fluid, damaged gaskets and worn-out seals.
With the above tips, you should have an easy time diagnosing transmission problems and maintaining your automatic transmission gearbox. Hire a mechanic for professional assistance with gearbox repairs.
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