You may not know much about transmissions, but if you’ve ever had a problem with yours, you may know it’s time to get it checked out. A delay when you try to accelerate, any difficulty changing gears, or a burning smell can all be indications that your transmission needs a little help. Sometimes your transmission woes are more obvious, such as an indicator light on your dashboard or a puddle of red fluid underneath your parked car. Let’s look at three of the main causes for a slipping transmission that go beyond the symptoms of a larger problem.

A Little Low

While modern cars may have a sealed transmission system, they can still develop leaks, resulting in not enough fluid to keep the transmission working properly. Low transmission fluid should not be ignored because it could lead to expensive repairs. Those sealed systems usually do not have a dip stick, so you may need to take your car to a transmission dealer to get it inspected.

Breaking Up the Band

Most transmissions have bands that keep the gears moving smoothly. Like any moving part, these bands can wear out or break over time, which means transmission repair or replacement may be in your future. This type of repair is best left to a professional.

Let Out the Clutch

Another reason the transmission may be slipping is broken or worn out clutch pads or a dragging clutch. If your transmission has trouble switching gears or makes a grinding noise, it could be a sign of a problem with your clutch or the gears themselves. A transmission dealer can replace your clutch kit and get you back on the road.

Of course, these three issues are not the only causes of a slipping transmission, which is why taking your car to Trans Works should be your next step. We can inspect your vehicle and replace your system if needed. Contact us to make an appointment for your newer model or vintage car.