At Cecil's Automotive in Collierville, TN and Olive Branch, MS, we know that transmissions are witchcraft to most people. More often than not, if major damage has occurred, it’s a lot more time and cost effective to just replace the entire unit and get a fresh start. Here’s what to look out for, from Cecil's Automotive in Collierville, TN and Olive Branch, MS.
Slippage
If your transmission is slipping, there’s a pretty solid chance it’s about to give up for good. Even if the root of the problem is fixed, the tiny particles and debris that have run through the system have probably damaged or otherwise compromised every other moving part in your transmission. If it's slipping, its days are most likely numbered - sometimes slippage will get worse incrementally, and sometimes it all happens at once. Either way, it’s probably time for a new transmission
Noisy Operation
If your transmission howls, grinds, whines, or otherwise makes noises that it shouldn’t, there’s probably an internal issue that needs to be addressed. It’s anyone’s guess how long it’ll last until you have it looked at, but there’s a good chance it needs to be replaced.
No Engagement in One or More Gears
If you’re missing a gear, or the transmission won’t move at all in one direction or the other, it’s probably called it quits. There are a wide variety of parts that mesh together inside, and if one of them strips out, it’s game over. In addition to having to break one down to find the problem, the whole transmission will have been subjected to debris in the system - replacing it altogether is probably the best option.
Coolant Contamination
Coolant in your transmission will destroy it in pretty short order. Unfortunately, coolant is the natural enemy of gaskets and seals, causing them to swell up or break down if exposed to coolant contamination. This is usually caused by a crack in the radiator, where the transmission and coolant are separated as each runs through to cool the engine and transmission. If your fluid test positive for coolant, it’s probably time to replace the transmission.
If you’re having transmission issues but your car, truck, or SUV is still moving, get it taken care of before it leaves you stranded. Eventually, your transmission will stop working altogether, and it might take out other expensive components in the process. Our technicians at Cecil's Automotive in Collierville, TN and Olive Branch, MS have the knowledge and ability you’re looking for.
