What Causes a Transmission to Slip?

Transmission slipping isn’t necessarily a sign of a failing transmission; sometimes, it means you need to flush and replace your transmission fluid. Your car’s transmission is a complex machine, as well as one of the most important. Accurately identifying the cause of transmission slipping is critical to keeping your car running at its best. Below, we explore the causes of transmission slipping, as well as indicators of a transmission problem. 

Transmission Slipping Signs

Signs of a slipping transmission can appear when you’re driving on Westlake roads or idling. Be on the lookout for the following red-flags: 

• Engine chugs or revs
• Acceleration is weak or slow 
• Shifting gears is difficult 
• Strange noises like grinding or whining 
• Strange burning smell 
• Illuminated check engine light 

If the transmission is slipping, the vehicle will likely feel slow to respond. In fact, the car may not respond at all when you try to accelerate. As the gears change, you’re likely to hear strange noises. The gears may also change or “slip” without warning; if that happens, you’ll want to schedule a service visit ASAP. 

Reasons Why a Transmission is Slipping

A slipping transmission may be the result of one (or more) of the following problems: 

• Transmission Fluid: Your transmission needs transmission fluid to operate at its best. So, if your transmission is sluggish, the fluid is the first component you’ll want to check. 
• Defective Solenoid: The transmission solenoid is an electro-magnetic component that controls the transmission fluid’s flow throughout the machine. If the solenoid is defective, the transmission may not be receiving enough fluid. 
• Damaged Transmission Bands: Transmission bands link the gears together. If the bands are worn out, it may be due to not enough transmission fluid. In any case, the bands will need to be replaced. 
• Clutch Issues: Like the bands, the clutch relies on fresh transmission fluid to operate properly. Automatic transmissions have a torque converter instead of a main clutch, but if you have a manual, you’ll want to keep an eye on the clutch. 
• Worn Gears: Transmissions don’t last forever; gears can wear out over time. Transmission fluid is highly important to prolonging the life of the gears. 
• Torque Converter Problems: The torque converter converts the engine power into torque used by the transmission. In addition to slipping, other issues can include burning, smoking, gears jumping, failing to go into gear, or complete blowout. 

Choose Ken Ganley Honda North Olmsted for Expert Transmission Service 

If you suspect problems with your transmission, don’t hesitate to seek professional auto service! A simple transmission fix can turn into an expensive, major problem if left unchecked. Schedule a service appointment online, or give us a call at (440) 750 2717 to learn more about our transmission service. Be sure to browse our service and parts specials before scheduling to take advantage of our current offers.