Shifting Problems:
* Hard shifting: Rough, jarring shifts between gears. This can be felt as a sudden lurch or bang as the transmission engages a new gear.
* Delayed shifting: A noticeable pause or hesitation before the transmission shifts.
* Slipping: The engine revs but the car doesn't accelerate as expected, feeling like the engine is "spinning out." This often happens under acceleration.
* Inability to shift into gear: Difficulty selecting a particular gear, or the gear won't engage properly.
* Grinding noises: Grinding sounds during shifting indicate internal transmission damage.
* Incorrect shifting: The transmission might shift into the wrong gear (e.g., shifting into second when you want first).
Other Symptoms:
* Transmission fluid leaks: Look for reddish-brown fluid leaking under the car. This is a very strong indicator of a problem. Check the fluid level in the transmission dipstick – low fluid is a big concern.
* Strange noises: Whining, humming, clunking, or banging sounds coming from the transmission area, especially when driving.
* Overheating: The transmission overheating can lead to fluid damage and failure. This might be indicated by a smell of burning fluid or unusually high engine temperature readings.
* Check Engine Light: While not always directly related to the transmission, the check engine light can illuminate due to transmission-related problems, particularly if the vehicle has an electronic transmission control system. A diagnostic scan code read will be necessary to determine the cause.
* Loss of power: A sudden or gradual loss of power, especially under acceleration, can signify transmission issues.
Important Note: It's crucial to have a mechanic diagnose transmission problems. Attempting repairs yourself without proper experience can lead to further damage and costly repairs. Early diagnosis and intervention can often prevent more extensive and expensive repairs down the road. The symptoms listed above can also be caused by other mechanical issues, so professional diagnosis is essential.
