Your vehicle’s transmission fluid plays a crucial role in keeping your transmission running smoothly. It lubricates moving parts, prevents overheating, and enables seamless gear shifts. However, when transmission fluid becomes contaminated, leaks, or runs low, it can lead to serious transmission problems and costly repairs. Recognizing the warning signs early can help you avoid major damage. Here are five common signs that your transmission fluid may have a problem.

Delayed or Slipping Gear Shifts

One of the most noticeable signs of transmission fluid trouble is when your vehicle hesitates or struggles to shift gears. If you experience a delay when shifting from park to drive or notice that your car slips out of gear unexpectedly, your transmission fluid may be low or degraded. Contaminated or insufficient fluid reduces hydraulic pressure, making it difficult for the transmission to engage gears properly.

Unusual Noises from the Transmission

Healthy transmission fluid helps keep the transmission running quietly. If you start hearing grinding, whining, or clunking noises while driving, it could indicate a problem with your transmission fluid. Low or dirty fluid can cause increased friction between internal components, leading to excessive wear and strange sounds.

Burning Smell

A burning smell coming from your vehicle could be a sign that your transmission fluid is overheating. Transmission fluid helps regulate temperature and prevent excessive heat buildup within the transmission. If the fluid is old, contaminated, or too low, it won’t be able to do its job effectively. Overheated transmission fluid can lead to serious internal damage.

Fluid Leaks Under Your Vehicle

If you notice a reddish or brownish fluid leaking under your vehicle, it could be transmission fluid. A transmission fluid leak can result from worn seals, gaskets, or damaged transmission components. If you suspect a leak, check your transmission fluid level and have the leak repaired as soon as possible to avoid major transmission damage.

Dirty or Discolored Transmission Fluid

Healthy transmission fluid is typically bright red. If your transmission fluid appears dark brown, black, or has a burnt odor, it may be contaminated with debris or degraded due to overheating. Dirty fluid can reduce the efficiency of your transmission and lead to performance issues. Regularly checking your transmission fluid and following the recommended fluid change schedule can help prevent these problems.

Transmission Service in Salem, OR

When you need transmission service in Salem, OR and the surrounding area, contact Keizer Transmission at (503) 512-0903. Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment for transmission repair or maintenance in Salem!