“Oh no, not automatic transmission problems again!”, a thought every automatic car driver has probably had. Indeed, automatic transmissions can be complex and exhibit various issues. But what does that actually mean?
“Automatic transmission problems” is a broad term encompassing many different sources of error and symptoms. It can range from slight jerking during shifting to more serious problems that can lead to complete transmission failure.
“A well-maintained automatic transmission should easily last over 200,000 kilometers,” says experienced car mechanic Hans Meier from Munich. “Unfortunately, maintenance is often neglected, which can then lead to costly repairs.”
Common Automatic Transmission Problems and Their Causes
The causes of automatic transmission problems are diverse. Here are some of the most common problems and their potential causes:
1. Jerking or Vibrating While Shifting
- Possible Cause: Worn clutch linings, low transmission fluid level, faulty torque converter
- Example: Imagine you are driving on the highway and your car suddenly jerks when accelerating. This could be a sign of worn clutch linings in the transmission.
Car shaking while shifting gears
2. Delayed Shifting or Gears Slipping Out
- Possible Cause: Defective sensors, dirty or incorrect transmission fluid, mechanical defect in the transmission
- Example: Your car only shifts into the next gear after a noticeable delay. This could indicate a faulty speed sensor that is sending incorrect information to the transmission.
Gears slipping out of car transmission
3. Transmission Slipping
- Possible Cause: Severely worn clutch plates, faulty torque converter, hydraulic issues
- Example: You press the accelerator, but your car doesn’t accelerate as usual. The engine revs up, but the power transmission to the wheels is not working properly. This is a clear sign that the transmission is slipping.
Transmission slipping example in car
4. Noises from the Transmission
- Possible Cause: Worn bearings, defective gears, lack of lubrication
- Example: A howling or humming noise from the transmission, especially at certain speeds, may indicate worn bearings.
Transmission noises coming from car
5. Transmission Goes into Limp Mode
- Possible Cause: Electronic fault, mechanical defect in the transmission, overheating
- Example: Suddenly the check engine light comes on and your car can only accelerate to a limited extent. The transmission has gone into limp mode to prevent greater damage.
