Keizer Transmission Blog

Transmission fluid is vital for the smooth and efficient operation of your vehicle’s transmission. It lubricates moving parts, helps manage temperature, and enables proper shifting. When fluid levels drop too low, it can lead to serious performance issues and even long-term damage. Recognizing the early signs of low transmission fluid can help you avoid costly repairs and keep your vehicle running smoothly. At Keizer Transmission, we can expertly handle issues related to transmission fluid. Here are four common signs that your transmission fluid is too low. Delayed/Rough Shifting A common sign of low transmission fluid is difficulty shifting gears. You may notice hesitation when the vehicle changes gears, or the shifts might feel rough. Low transmission fluid levels prevent the system from building the pressure needed to shift smoothly. This can lead to erratic gear changes, slipping between gears, or complete failure to shift. Ignoring this symptom can soon result in internal transmission damage. Unusual Noises When transmission fluid is low, components inside the transmission can start to grind or make unusual noises due to inadequate lubrication. You might hear whining, buzzing, or clunking sounds when the vehicle is in gear or during acceleration. These noises indicate that metal parts are rubbing together without the protective layer of fluid, which can accelerate wear and lead to serious mechanical problems if not addressed promptly. Overheating Transmission Transmission fluid also serves as a coolant for the transmission. When levels are too low, the transmission can overheat. Overheating can cause serious damage to internal components, burn the remaining fluid, and lead to complete failure. If you notice a burning smell while driving, it may be a sign that the system is overheating due to low fluid. Slipping Gears Low transmission fluid can cause your vehicle to slip out of gear unexpectedly. This is a dangerous condition that can make it difficult to accelerate or maintain consistent speed. Gear slippage often indicates that the fluid is too low to provide the necessary hydraulic pressure to hold gears in place. Transmission Service in Salem, OR When you need transmission service in Salem 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!

Constant velocity (CV) joints play a critical role in transferring power from the transmission to the wheels while allowing for smooth and flexible movement, especially during turns. When these joints begin to wear or fail, they can cause noticeable issues that may worsen over time. At Keizer Transmission, we provide expert CV joint repair in the greater Salem, OR area. Being able to recognize the signs of a CV joint problem can help you address the issue before it leads to more severe damage or an unsafe driving situation. Clicking Noises When Turning One of the most common and easily recognized signs of a CV joint problem is a clicking or popping noise when turning. This can indicate that the CV joint’s protective boot is torn or damaged, allowing dirt and moisture to enter while grease escapes. As the joint becomes dry and contaminated, it wears out faster, leading to these audible symptoms during sharp turns. Vibration While Driving If you feel unusual vibrations coming from the front of the vehicle while driving, especially under acceleration, this could be a sign of a CV joint that’s starting to fail. A worn CV joint can create an imbalance that causes the vehicle to shake. These vibrations may increase in intensity with speed and can cause uncomfortable and potentially unsafe driving. Grease on the Inside of the Wheel A torn CV boot will often lead to grease being flung out of the joint and onto nearby components. If you notice dark-colored grease on the inside edge of your tire or on the surrounding undercarriage, it’s a sign that the CV boot has ruptured. Without the necessary lubrication, the CV joint will quickly deteriorate, so this visible evidence should not be ignored. Bouncy or Unstable Ride While a bouncy or unstable ride can have several causes, one possibility is that a failing CV joint is no longer maintaining proper wheel alignment or power transfer. This can cause the vehicle to feel loose or unsettled during driving, particularly during quick directional changes. CV Joint Repair in Salem, OR When you need transmission and drivetrain services in Salem, OR and the surrounding area, contact Keizer Transmission at  (503) 512-0903  . At our nearby transmission shop, we’ll make sure your vehicle shifts smoothly and safely. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment for transmission repair or maintenance in Salem!

Your vehicle’s transmission is responsible for transferring power from the engine to the wheels, allowing for smooth acceleration and efficient performance. When transmission problems arise, they can lead to costly repairs or even complete failure if left unattended. Recognizing the early signs of trouble can help you avoid more significant damage. At Keizer Transmission, we provide expert transmission repair in the greater Salem, OR area. Here’s a look at four common transmission issues that should be addressed as soon as possible. Slipping Gears A healthy transmission should keep your vehicle in the correct gear without unexpected shifts. If you notice your car slipping between gears while driving or experiencing sudden power loss, this could indicate worn-out transmission bands, low fluid levels, or internal damage. Ignoring gear slipping can lead to dangerous driving conditions and extensive transmission repairs. Delayed or Rough Shifting If your vehicle hesitates or jerks when shifting gears, this is a sign of a transmission issue. Delayed shifting can be caused by low transmission fluid or a failing solenoid. Rough shifting may indicate internal damage. Addressing these issues early can help prevent further wear and ensure a smoother driving experience. Transmission Fluid Leaks Transmission fluid is essential for keeping the components lubricated and functioning properly. If you notice reddish fluid pooling under your vehicle, this may indicate a transmission fluid leak. Low fluid levels can lead to overheating and excessive friction, causing severe internal damage. It’s important to have any leaks repaired promptly to prevent transmission failure. Burning Smell or Overheating A burning smell coming from your vehicle may signal that your transmission is overheating due to old, degraded, or insufficient fluid. Overheating can cause major internal damage and lead to transmission failure. Regularly checking and replacing transmission fluid as recommended by your manufacturer can help prevent overheating issues. Transmission Repair in Salem, OR For transmission repair 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, OR!

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!

Your vehicle’s transmission is one of its most critical components, responsible for transferring power from the engine to the wheels. Proper maintenance can help extend its lifespan, improve performance, and prevent costly repairs. Here are five tips for keeping your transmission in great shape. Check and Change the Transmission Fluid Regularly Transmission fluid lubricates the internal components, reduces heat, and promotes smooth gear shifts. Over time, the fluid can degrade or develop low levels, which can lead to serious transmission issues. Checking the fluid level and quality regularly can help prevent damage. If the fluid appears dark, dirty, or has a burnt smell, it’s time for a change. Following your vehicle manufacturer’s recommended service intervals will help keep the transmission running smoothly. Shift Gears Smoothly and Responsibly Driving habits play a major role in transmission longevity. Abrupt shifts between drive, reverse, and park can strain the transmission components, leading to premature wear. With an automatic transmission, always come to a complete stop before shifting between these gears. Also, smooth acceleration can reduce stress and help keep your transmission in great condition. Get Routine Transmission Inspections Regular professional inspections can help detect early signs of transmission trouble before they turn into costly repairs. Mechanics can check for fluid leaks, worn components, and computer diagnostic codes that indicate potential issues. Catching small problems early can help save you from expensive breakdowns. Don’t Overload Your Vehicle Exceeding your vehicle’s towing or payload capacity puts excessive strain on the transmission. Hauling loads heavier than what your vehicle is designed for can cause overheating and fluid degradation, potentially leading to major problems. Checking your owner's manual for towing guidelines can help prevent unnecessary wear and damage. Address Transmission Problems Immediately If you notice any unusual signs—such as delayed shifting, slipping gears, strange noises, or a burning smell—have your transmission checked immediately. Ignoring early warning signs can lead to severe damage and expensive repairs. Prompt attention can help prevent further deterioration and keep your vehicle running efficiently. Transmission Service in Salem, OR When you need transmission service in Salem and the surrounding area, contact Keizer Transmission at  (503) 512-0903  . Our local transmission mechanics will ensure that your vehicle shifts safely and smoothly. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment for transmission repair or maintenance in Salem!

Transmission fluid is essential for keeping your vehicle's transmission system lubricated, cool, and functioning properly. A leak can lead to serious damage if not addressed promptly. Understanding where these leaks typically originate can help you identify and resolve the issue before it becomes more expensive to address. At Keizer Transmission, we provide expert transmission fluid leak repair in the greater Salem, OR area. Here’s a look at four common sources of transmission fluid leaks. Transmission Pan Gasket The transmission pan gasket creates a seal between the transmission pan and the transmission housing. As the miles add up, the gasket can degrade, crack, or become loose, allowing fluid to escape. This issue is especially common in older vehicles or after improper installation during a fluid change. Transmission Seals Seals are used in the transmission system to prevent fluid from escaping at key connection points. Common areas for seal leaks include the input shaft seal, output shaft seal, and axle seals. Worn or damaged seals can allow transmission fluid to drip, often without immediate detection. Torque Converter The torque converter is a vital part of an automatic transmission system, transferring power from the engine to the transmission. A crack or faulty seal in the torque converter can lead to fluid leaks. These leaks are sometimes harder to detect because of their less noticeable location. Transmission Pan The transmission pan itself can become a source of leaks if it is damaged, rusted, or improperly installed. A bent or cracked pan may prevent a proper seal, leading to fluid leaks. Regular inspections can help identify and address this issue early. Transmission Repair in Salem, OR When you need transmission repair in Salem, OR and the surrounding area, contact Keizer Transmission at  (503) 512-0903  . Our nearby transmission mechanics will make sure that your vehicle shifts safely and smoothly. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment for transmission repair or maintenance in Salem!

When your automatic transmission begins to experience issues, it’s important to get to the shop ASAP. Otherwise, the problem could soon escalate and become a lot more expensive to take care of. At Keizer Transmission, we provide expert automatic transmission repair in the greater Salem, OR area. Here’s a look at four warning signs of automatic transmission trouble. Slipping Gears One of the most noticeable signs of transmission trouble is when the gears start slipping. This occurs when the transmission unexpectedly shifts in and out of gear or struggles to stay in the correct gear. You may notice a sudden loss of power or a surge in RPMs without corresponding acceleration. Slipping gears can be caused by low transmission fluid or internal mechanical issues. Delayed or Rough Shifting If you experience delays or a jerky sensation when shifting gears, it could indicate a problem with the transmission. Smooth gear transitions are essential for comfortable driving, and any hesitation or harshness during shifting suggests that something is amiss. Delayed or rough shifts can result from a failing torque converter or low fluid levels, and addressing these issues promptly is crucial to prevent further trouble. Unusual Noises Strange noises coming from your transmission are another red flag. Common sounds associated with transmission trouble include whining, buzzing, clunking, or grinding. These noises often occur when the vehicle is in gear or shifting and may be a sign of worn gears or insufficient lubrication. Ignoring these sounds can lead to more severe problems, so it's important to have your vehicle inspected as soon as you hear them. Leaking Transmission Fluid Transmission fluid is essential for cooling, lubricating, and ensuring proper hydraulic pressure within the transmission. A fluid leak is a clear sign of trouble and can often be identified by a reddish puddle under your vehicle. Low fluid levels can lead to overheating, gear slipping, and eventually transmission failure. If you notice a leak, it's essential to address it quickly to avoid more extensive damage. Automatic Transmission Repair in Salem, OR When you need transmission repair in Salem, OR and the surrounding area, contact Keizer Transmission at  (503) 512-0903  . Our nearby transmission mechanics will ensure that your car shifts smoothly and safely. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment for transmission repair or maintenance in Salem!

The transmission is one of the most important parts of a vehicle, responsible for controlling power distribution from the engine to the wheels. However, certain driving habits can put unnecessary stress on the transmission, leading to potentially expensive repairs. Here are five common ways drivers unintentionally cause transmission problems. Shifting Gears Without Fully Stopping One of the most common ways to harm a transmission is by shifting from reverse to drive (or vice versa) without fully stopping the vehicle. When drivers make this switch while the car is still moving, it forces the transmission to absorb the extra strain, which wears down critical components over time. Overloading the Vehicle Heavy loads put added stress on a vehicle’s transmission. Overloading makes the transmission work harder to move the vehicle, which can lead to overheating and accelerated wear. In particular, transmissions in smaller vehicles are often not designed to handle excessive weight and can sustain significant damage if frequently overloaded. Using the Wrong Transmission Fluid Each transmission is engineered to operate with a specific type of fluid. Using the wrong kind of transmission fluid can lead to poor lubrication, overheating, and even transmission failure. Since different fluids have different properties, using a fluid that isn’t compatible with your transmission can cause components to wear out more quickly. Ignoring Warning Signs of Trouble The transmission usually gives warning signs when something isn’t right, such as unusual noises, delayed shifting, or leaking fluid. Ignoring these signs and continuing to drive can turn a minor issue into a major problem. Many transmission issues start small but become far more serious when left unaddressed. As soon as you notice any symptom of a transmission issue, it’s important to promptly visit a transmission specialist for diagnostics. Transmission Repair in Salem, OR For transmission repair in Salem, OR and the surrounding area, contact Keizer Transmission at  (503) 512-0903  . We can expertly address your transmission repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment for transmission service in Salem!