Broken Automatic Car Transmission? Find out how to fix it!

In the automotive world, automatic car transmission have become a popular choice for many drivers, providing comfort and convenience in driving without having to worry about manually operating the clutch. However, as is the case with other car components, automatic transmissions are also prone to damage and technical problems.

In this  TransTRACK article, we will explore some important aspects about automatic car transmissions, including signs of damage to look out for, common causes of damage, as well as preventive and repair measures that can be taken to keep your transmission operating in optimal condition. Let’s start by understanding more about automatic car transmissions and how to keep them in top condition.

Signs of Damaged Automatic Car Transmission

These signs can indicate a problem with the automatic car transmission. The appearance of noise can indicate friction or wear of components in the transmission. An engine that does not respond immediately can also be a sign of a transmission problem, as the transmission is not sending power efficiently to the wheels.

A leak in the transmission fluid is also a serious sign. Leaking transmission fluid can cause a pressure drop in the transmission system, which can cause poor performance or even permanent damage to transmission components.

Signs of a broken automatic car transmission are:

The appearance of noise from the car

Unusual noises, such as rattling, creaking, or squeaking from the transmission or other related parts, could be a sign of a problem. This may be caused by component wear, abnormal friction, or even leaks.

The car engine does not respond immediately

When you press the accelerator, the engine should respond smoothly with a commensurate increase in speed. However, if the engine does not respond immediately or there is a significant delay between pressing the accelerator and the car starting to move, this could indicate a problem with the transmission.

Leakage of transmission fluid

Leaking transmission fluid is a clear sign that there is a problem. Transmission fluid is important for lubricating and cooling transmission components, and loss of this fluid can result in transmission failure or other serious damage. Usually, leaks can be seen under the car as shiny or wet transmission fluid stains.

All of these signs indicate a potential problem with the transmission and should be addressed immediately. Ignoring these signs can result in further damage to the transmission and higher repair costs in the future. It is recommended to immediately take your car to a repair shop to be checked by a skilled mechanic if you suspect a problem with the transmission.

Causes of Faulty Automatic Car Transmission

The causes of broken automatic car transmissions can vary, but some common causes include:

Damage to the shift fork component

The shift fork is the part of the transmission that is responsible for shifting the gears of the transmission. If the shift fork suffers from damage or wear, it can cause unsmooth shifting, buzzing, or even failure to shift gears. This can result in damage to the transmission as a whole.

Shifting gears before the car stops

Shifting gears before the car is fully stopped can cause excessive stress on transmission components. This can cause faster wear on components such as the clutch and transmission gears, and can lead to problems such as slipping or locked gears.

Slow to change the transmission oil

Transmission oil plays an important role in lubricating and cooling transmission components. If the transmission oil is not changed regularly or if the oil level drops significantly, it can cause excessive friction, wear, and eventual damage to the transmission components.

In addition to these factors, there are also various other causes that can cause damage to the transmission of an automatic car, including improper use, continuous heavy loads, and accidents. It is important to perform proper maintenance and pay attention to potential signs of transmission problems to prevent serious damage and high repair costs in the future.

How to Prevent Automatic Car Transmission from Damaging

To prevent damage to the automatic car transmission and extend its life, you can follow the following maintenance steps:

Pay attention to Periodic Maintenance

Perform regular maintenance according to your car owner’s manual. This includes regular transmission oil changes, inspection of key components, and other routine maintenance.

Pay Attention to Driving Style

Avoid shifting gears before the car is fully stopped. Wait for the car to come to a complete stop before shifting gears. Also avoid driving with a heavy load constantly, which can put additional stress on the transmission.

Use the Right Transmission Oil

Make sure you use the transmission fluid recommended by your car manufacturer. The right oil can properly lubricate and protect transmission components, helping to prevent wear and tear.

Watch for Signs of Trouble

If you suspect any problems with the transmission, such as unusual noises, delays in gear changes, or transmission fluid leaks, immediately take your car to a repair shop for further inspection. Addressing the problem as early as possible can prevent more serious damage.

Avoid Inexperienced Drivers

If your car is used by a driver who is not familiar with automatic cars, give directions on how to drive properly to prevent damage to the transmission.

Protect the Transmission from Extreme Conditions

Avoid using the car in extreme conditions such as towing heavy loads beyond the specified capacity, driving in extreme weather conditions, or driving on very rough terrain without sufficient protection.

By paying attention to these steps, you can help prevent damage to the automatic car transmission and ensure its performance remains optimal throughout the life of the car.

How to Overcome Damaged Automatic Car Transmission

Overcoming damage to an automatic car transmission usually requires assistance from a trained and experienced mechanic. However, here are some general steps that can be taken if you are facing problems with an automatic car transmission:

Check the Transmission Fluid

If you suspect a transmission fluid leak, check the transmission fluid level using a dipstick. If the fluid level is low, add transmission fluid recommended by your car manufacturer according to the instructions in the owner’s manual.

Check Cable and Sensor Connectivity

Some transmission problems can be caused by interference with the cables or sensors connected to the transmission. Check the cable and sensor connections to ensure there are no broken cables or loose connectors. If a problem is found, repair or replace the damaged part.

Perform an ECU Reset

In some cases, transmission problems can be caused by faulty signals from the engine control unit (ECU). Performing a reset on the ECU can help fix this problem. However, be sure to follow the correct procedure recommended by your car manufacturer.

Inspection and Repair of Transmission Components

If your problem is more serious, such as unsmooth shifting or late gear changes, there may be a problem with the transmission’s internal components. In this case, further inspection by a trained mechanic is necessary. Damaged or worn components may need to be replaced or repaired.

Routine Maintenance and Care

After the problem is resolved, be sure to perform routine maintenance and maintenance according to the schedule specified by your car manufacturer. This includes regular transmission oil changes, inspection of important components, and other maintenance that can help prevent transmission damage in the future.

It is important to remember that some problems with automatic car transmissions can be very complex and require specialized knowledge and the right equipment to fix. If you are unsure or do not have the necessary skills, it is best to consult a professional mechanic.

Now you have a better understanding of the signs and how to solve problems with automatic car transmissions. However, remember that keeping your transmission in good condition requires regular and proper maintenance.

By using TransTRACK’s Vehicle Maintenance System, you can easily keep track of regular maintenance schedules for your transmission and other car components. With the customizable notification feature, you’ll never miss a transmission oil change or other periodic checkup.

Don’t let transmission problems interrupt your journey. Get full control over your car’s maintenance with TransTRACK’s Vehicle Maintenance System. Visit our website today to get started!