You know your vehicle well, and it’s important to pay attention to warning signs. So, if it starts to behave in a different way, take note of it immediately. Any change in the way it drives, behaves, or even smells could mean that your vehicle needs to be looked at. The most important way you can help your car stay healthy is to diagnose the root cause of any issues as soon as possible. How do you know when to get a transmission service? Check out these signs below and come see us at our Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, RAM Service Department. 1. Vehicle Won't Stay in Gear If your vehicle won't move when you put it into gear, this could indicate low transmission fluid caused by a leak. It could also be caused by an issue in the valve body, the shifter, or the shifter cable of an automatic transmission. Computers in newer vehicles are able to communicate with the transmission when to shift gears based on your shifting selection, so your computer system may need to be checked for any trouble codes. more 2. Missing Gears or Delayed Shifts If you notice the transmission takes longer than usual to go into gear, there may be an issue with the fluid. A leak or contamination from water intrusion or lack of maintenance can be a contributing factor. While these may seem like issues that don't require immediate attention, ignoring them can create overheating that could damage internal parts of the transmission. This could also mean problems related to the engine that won't signal the transmission to shift to higher gears. 3. Slipping or High Revving Slipping of the transmission or high revving of the engine can also be caused by a fluid leak, water intrusion, contamination, or wear on the internal transmission parts. An engine revving high is typically a sign that the clutches are worn or that other parts are going bad. 4. Leaking Fluid It's important to investigate any fluid leaking from your vehicle, but if you notice the liquid to be bright red, dark red, or brown, that is a transmission leak stemming from a gasket, seal, or cooler line. A leak isn't only bad for your transmission, it can also be dangerous if it has been leaking on a pipe or other surface. 5. A Burning Smell Typically stemming from a fluid leak or low fluid, a burning smell could be present. If the leak is caught early enough, the transmission may be saved from any permanent damage. The smell will be strongest when the engine has just been turned off and you exit the vehicle. Regardless of the cause, a burning smell from your vehicle is never to be ignored. Schedule a Transmission Service in Rockville, MD Today Have you noticed any one of these transmission warning signs? If none of these signs are present but your transmission warning or check engine light turns on, make an appointment for service immediately. Call or stop by DARCARS Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM of Rockville today to have us check your fluid levels and run a diagnostic on your transmission to ensure your vehicle is in top shape.
