It’s important to understand the symptoms of low transmission fluid in automobiles. Why? Because if you’re able to answer the question, “How do you know if your car needs transmission fluid?” confidently, then you can potentially avoid some pretty expensive repairs in the future.
Transmission fluid helps lubricate all the different moving parts in your transmission, the system that helps determine the speed you go by “telling” your car how much power should be sent to your car’s wheels.
The sooner you can recognize the symptoms of low transmission fluid in automobiles, the better. Let’s take a look at three of the most common symptoms of low transmission fluid in automobiles.
1. You’re having trouble shifting gears
One common symptom of low transmission fluid in automobiles is trouble shifting gear. Depending on what type of transmission you have — automatic or manual — this “trouble” will play out differently. With automatic transmissions, you might notice a slight delay. With manual transmissions, on the other hand, this delay will be much more noticeable, and it might actually be very difficult to switch gears at all.
Driving on low transmission fluid is never a good idea, and if you’re having trouble shifting gears, you might want to take this as a sign. In other words, don’t wait for a check engine light flashing.
2. Unusual noises are coming from your engine
Unusual noises such as grinding can be one of the symptoms of low transmission fluid in automobiles. The grinding noise occurs when the poorly lubricated components of your engine rub up against each other. If you hear strange noises coming from your vehicle, do not overlook it — it’s a sign your car needs help.
Speaking of signs, check out the signs of a bad wheel bearing.
3. You notice fluids leaking
Fluid leaks are never a good sign. If you find a puddle of red fluid underneath your vehicle, it could be a symptom of low transmission fluid. Any type of leak should be taken care of as soon as possible, and a transmission fluid leak is no exception. Keep in mind, however, that a manual transmission will have a less severe leak than an automatic transmission.
But this doesn’t mean things aren’t going downhill. You shouldn’t wait very long after you notice a leak to have your vehicle inspected — automatic or not. (But is oil a different story? Take a look at “How long can you go without an oil change?”)
Notice symptoms of low transmission fluid in your automobile?
If you notice your car displaying symptoms of low transmission fluid, DON’T WAIT. The longer you put off a check-up, the more likely it is that you could end up in a pool of broken parts and expensive repairs.
Wondering, “Why is my car low on transmission fluid?” or even, “How long does it take for transmission fluid to work?” Need a Texas vehicle inspection, or just want to know what to check on your vehicle before a trip?
The experts at Colony One Auto Repair are here to assist any car issues you may be facing. We are here to help you properly assess symptoms of low transmission fluid in an automobile and provide you with a variety of other car services.
Request service online today or give us a call at 281-800-9209.
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