Keizer Transmission Blog

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!