How to Spot Car Transmission Issues & Get Early Repairs?

Cruising down the Mitchell Freeway and suddenly felt your car hesitate. Or worse, refuse to move? If so, you’re dealing with something that drivers dread: a car transmission issue.

Transmission troubles don’t just appear out of nowhere. They creep in without any noise and suddenly you’re stuck calling roadside assistance. So, it is better to look out for early signs of a failing transmission. So, you can save time, money, and a whole lot of stress.

At Motor Mate WA, we’ve seen all minor slip-ups to full-blown transmission failures. Conveniently located in Morley, we help Perth drivers get back on the road safely. Backed by skilled technicians and honest advice.

Let’s guide you on transmission issues.

What Is Transmission of a Car?

Your car’s transmission is like the middleman between the engine and the wheels.

It controls the power from the engine and delivers it to the wheels to keep you moving. It is the system that helps your car “change gears” and adapt to speed and load. Without it, you’re going nowhere fast.

There are different types, manual, automatic, and CVT transmission systems. Each has its own quirks, strengths, and typical problems. But no matter which type you drive, keeping your auto transmission healthy is key to a smooth ride.

10 Signs Indicating Transmission Issues & Reasons Behind Them

Transmission trouble is a death sentence for your car, but it doesn’t have to be. Knowing the warning signs and acting fast can save your wallet and your wheels.

Here’s what you should keep your eye on.

1. Gear is not Engaging

When your car transmission refuses to get into gear, it’s a red flag. Because it means the clutch is worn out or there’s a deeper hydraulic issue. It can be leaking transmission fluid or damage in the valve body. Either way, it’s time for an expert transmission repair check.

2. Experiencing Delayed or Missed Gear Shifts

Your car hesitates when changing gears or jumps unexpectedly? This indicates a software glitch, low transmission fluid, or damage in internal parts. Clear signs that your auto transmissions are crying for help. It can be an engine problem too, so better get it checked.

3. Clutch Acting Weird or Dragging

If you drive a manual, this one is for you. When the clutch feels sluggish or not disengage fully, known as a “dragging clutch”. It keeps the transmission from changing gears smoothly. Causes can be worn-out clutch or damaged transmission; both are not to be ignored.

4. Feel a Shake or Grind While Driving

Noticing a grinding sound or vibration when shifting? That indicates worn gears or bearings inside the automatic gearbox. If not noticed on time, it can lead to total failure. Let our automatic gearbox specialists take a look before it gets worse.

5. Transmission Slips and Revs High Without Moving

If the engine revs like a race car, but you’re barely moving, that’s a slipping transmission. That’s usually due to worn bands or clutches or water flooding inside the box. A classic symptom that calls for immediate transmission repair services.

6. Burning Smell When Driving

A burnt smell isn’t just unpleasant, but a clue that your transmission is overheating. This is caused by clutch damage due to low fluid levels & can ruin internal parts. Checking your transmission fluid regularly can help prevent this costly issue.

7. Weird Noises While in Neutral

Buzzing, clunking, or humming when you’re not in gear? That’s not normal. It means there’s metal-on-metal contact inside your transmission. Book a check before it becomes a total breakdown.

8. Seeing Fluid Puddles Under Your Car

Transmission fluid is red and slightly sweet-smelling. If it’s dripping on your driveway, you’ve got a seal or gasket failure inside your transmission system. Top off the fluid and get to a mechanic ASAP.

9. Power Issues, but the Engine’s Fine

If your vehicle’s not accelerating properly, but the engine seems fine. The problem lies in the transmission in automobile. This miscommunication can stem from a failing torque converter, faulty brake hose, damaged calliper or slipping gears.

10. Dashboard Lights Lighting Up

If your check engine light or transmission warning icon is on, don’t ignore it. It can be a solenoid problem, overheated engine or speed sensors. Modern vehicles have sensors that pick up on minor transmission issues long before they’re noticeable to you.

How to Detect CVT Transmission Faults?

CVT transmission faults are sneakier as compared to manual or automatic ones. As they use pulleys to transfer the engine power to wheels, and gears are not involved. Hence, most of warning signs are absent like gear dragging, missing or sensations in neutral.

You should look out for:

• Slipping vehicle
• Overheating
• Whining noises while moving

They point to belt or pulley wear. Since CVTs operate differently, they need more expertise in detection of faults. Luckily, that’s what we do best at Motor Mate WA.

What’s The Price to Replace Transmission?

Most of the customers that come to us with a completely failed transmission ask this question. Well, it is somewhat lower than new engine price but obviously more than minor repair costs. Here are some estimates:

Keep in mind that these are just estimates & actual price depends upon your car’s model, dealer & current market rates. Still, before you panic, let us tell you that our transmission Repair Perth services cost much less. So, timeliness is the key here.

How Early Repairs Can Save You?

Repairing always set you back a few hundred bucks, especially if it’s a seal, filter, or fluid issue. But if you wait too long or keep ignoring the issues, you’ll have to deal with a full auto transmission replacement cost.

To avoid big expenses:

• Regularly check your fluid levels
• Get transmission serviced every 60,000 km
• Watch for warning signs early
• Visit Motor Mate WA at the first sign of trouble

So, if you’re seeing a leak, hearing odd sounds, or feeling that something’s off. Don’t wait for a total breakdown. Get it checked before it wrecks.

Looking for Expert Transmission Repair Perth?

Transmission Repair Services at Motor Mate WA

At Motor Mate WA, we’re your local pit stop for everything related to car diagnostics.

With years of experience in Transmission Repair, we’re equipped to handle issues big and small. We’ll check your transmission, explain what’s wrong (in plain English), and give you fair pricing, with no surprises.

Our promise? Efficient, reliable service with nationwide guarantees.

So, if you’re wondering about the meaning transmission or you’re already knee-deep in trouble, swing by or give us a shout.

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FAQs

How to know what transmission is in my car?

You can find the transmission type on your car’s manual, VIN, or window sticker. Physically checking the gear type, manual, automatic or CVT, can also help.

Is it safe to drive with transmission issues?
No, not at all. You risk being stranded on the road or causing further damage to your engine.

How much does transmission repair usually cost?
Depends on the severity and type of issue, repairs can range from $300 to $3,000. But their cost is always lesser than replacement price.

Do I need a specialist for automatic gearbox repair?
Yes. Automatic gearbox specialists have the tools and skills for accurate diagnostics and repair. So, even the hidden issues can be detected accurately.

Can low fluid cause major transmission issues?
Absolutely. Low or dirty fluid is the leading cause of failures. Always top up your transmission fluid on time to avoid the problem.

Are CVT transmissions more expensive to repair?
Yes, they can be. CVT transmission faults require specialised knowledge to get detected. Plus, their parts are expensive too.