Precision Auto Care is your trusted destination in San Leandro for expert transmission diagnostics and repairs. Do you hear unusual noises when shifting gears or sense something is off with your vehicle’s performance? These could signal transmission troubles needing prompt attention.
As your knowledgeable community auto shop, we want to arm you with the insight to identify potential transmission issues before they escalate. Recognizing the early signs means you can schedule a visit for our ASE certified technicians to correctly diagnose and resolve the problem. Continue reading to learn about some of the most common transmission troubles and how Precision Auto Care can help.
Gear Grinding and Difficulty Shifting
Grinding noises and difficulty smoothly changing gears often result from:
- Worn synchronizers in manual transmissions hindering proper coordination between gears
- Automatic transmission bands slipping, impeding gear engagement
- Low transmission fluid levels or incorrect fluid types leading to friction
Solutions involve replacing worn parts or adjusting bands and cables. We also check fluid levels and condition, draining contaminated or inadequate fluid to prevent further grinding issues.
Burning Odor Signaling Overheating
An alarming burning smell emanating from your vehicle likely means the transmission is overheating from:
- Insufficient or old transmission fluid that has broken down over time
- Using the incorrect fluid type recommended by your manufacturer
- Leaks allowing fluid to escape
Overheating transmission fluid loses its lubricating properties, escalating the likelihood of significant damage if left unchecked. We thoroughly inspect your vehicle for leaks and replace worn seals or gaskets as needed. We also drain and refresh your transmission fluid, using precisely what your make and model requires.
Hesitation Shifting In and Out of Gear
When your vehicle refuses to change gears or seems stuck despite your best efforts, potential causes consist of:
- Low fluid levels or leaks hindering hydraulic pressure
- Problems with shift linkages, cables, or clutch components
- Computer sensors requiring reset to restore communication between transmission components
Resetting your vehicle’s computer often resolves electronic issues interfering with shifting. For mechanical problems, we methodically examine clutch linkages, shift cables, bands, and sensors – replacing parts as necessary. We also refill fluid to proper levels and check for leaks.
Humming, Clunking and Whining Noises
Strange new noises arising from your transmission may signal problems like:
- Gear damage from worn synchronizers causing a whining pitch
- Low fluid enabling gear teeth to knock together, creating a humming sound
- Debris lodged within damaging transmission components and producing a clunking noise
Identifying the origin of unfamiliar sounds allows our technicians to pinpoint solutions, like cleaning debris or replacing damaged gears. We also top-off fluids to prevent abnormal friction and inspect seals, bands, clutches, and valves underlying emerging noises.
The Check Engine Light Signals Sensor Issues
Your check engine light illuminates when electronic sensors detect problems within the powertrain, including potential transmission troubles like:
- Speed sensors misreading RPMs as you shift gears
- Solenoid issues preventing proper valve alignment to change gears
- Circuit failures hindering communication between electronic components
We hook up your vehicle to diagnostic equipment, reading any sensor error codes pinpointing transmission issues. We then methodically examine speed sensors, solenoids, circuits, computer modules, and electrical connectors – replacing any faulty components.
Slipping Transmission Relates to Torque Converter Issues
The torque converter manages fluid pressure to transfer engine power towards changing gears seamlessly. Slipping during acceleration can mean:
- Clogged fluid passages reducing hydraulic pressure
- Leaks lowering fluid levels below optimal operability
- Malfunctioning valves unable to appropriately direct fluid to the torque converter
Replacing a damaged torque converter restores proper sealing and fluid pressures for smooth, dependable shifting. We also address any underlying issues like blockages or leaks contributing to torque converter problems.
Identifying the Source of Transmission Leaks
Common sources for troubling fluid leaks consist of:
- Cracked transmission pan unable to contain fluid
- Leaking gaskets or seals worn from excessive heat and friction
- Overflowing fluid from overfilling
- Damaged cooler lines spilling fluid
Regardless of the origin, leaks mean you are low on vital transmission fluid. We thoroughly clean leak areas, replace worn gaskets and seals, and top-off your fluid levels. We also inspect your transmission pan, cooler lines, plugs, and filters – repairing any cracks or external damage that could cause leaks.
Ignoring transmission problems risks escalating minor issues into major repair bills. As San Leandro’s trusted transmission specialists, Precision Auto Care provides reliable diagnostics and expert repairs, whether you need a routine fluid change or a complex rebuild. Contact us today to schedule an appointment, convenience for your busy schedule with Saturday hours available. Invest in your vehicle’s performance now and avoid break-downs, safety hazards, and expensive replacements down the road. Our technicians have the solutions to keep your ride shifting smoothly for the long run.
