The gearbox in your car is quite important. When you shift gears, your car’s gearbox transfers engine power to the wheels, allowing you to go forward. While this may appear to be a basic and uncomplicated operation, transmission contains a plethora of components that must all operate in perfect harmony to guarantee that your car works properly. Transmission difficulties and malfunctions may practically halt a vehicle in its tracks since they play such a crucial role, which makes being aware of the warning signals and related concerns critical for every car owner.
We provide a wide range of mechanical repair services at Smart Mechanics’ Car mechanic in Hertfordshire to guarantee that your car runs smoothly from the inside out. As a consequence, we know the transmission system better than others, and we understand the difficulties that might arise, as well as the remedies that will get your car back on the road. Continue reading to learn about the most frequent transmission issues that impact automobiles today, as well as how to correct them.
Transmission fluid that is low or contaminated
Both manual and automatic transmission cars require specialised fluid to keep the clutches and bands that control the gear change mechanism lubricated. Transmission fluid, on the other hand, does not endure indefinitely. Transmission fluid can become low or unclean over time, or as a consequence of leaks or contamination. Both of these concerns prohibit the gears from obtaining as much lubrication as they require, resulting in grinding, overheating, and slippage. Continuing to drive with low or tainted transmission fluid can lead to total vehicle failure over time.
What is the solution? It’s as easy as applying the proper amount of clean, debris-free transmission fluid to your car. Regular fluid level checks will also allow low levels, pollution, and leaks to be detected early and fixed properly. It’s a good idea to check your transmission fluid once a month. However, the frequency with which the transmission fluid is replaced varies from vehicle to vehicle. Some automobiles and vans only need their transmission fluid replaced every 30,000 miles, while others require it every 100,000 miles. Fluid replacements are not required in new vehicles with automatic gearboxes until they fail, as the fluid is enclosed within the vehicle and is designed to last the life of the vehicle.
A worn clutch or gear synchroniser in manual transmission
The clutch and gear synchronisers are two of the many components that make up a manual gearbox. Failure of one or both of these components can result in serious transmission issues, including total transmission failure. Both components can wear down over time, and mechanical faults can be caused by hydraulic fluid leaks or even human error if your driver changes gears repeatedly without releasing the clutch.
What is the solution? Your clutch or gear synchroniser may need to be changed depending on the extent of wear to have your vehicle’s gearbox running properly again. It’s also a good idea to address some of the underlying concerns, such as correcting leaks and modifying driving behaviour.
Needle bearing failure in automatic transmission vehicles
Some transmission issues are unique to automatic transmission systems, with needle roller bearing failures being the most prevalent. Although these bearings are tiny and light, they perform an important function in minimising gear grinding in automatic transmission systems. Failed needle roller bearings can cause your transmission system to make grinding and brushing noises, as well as halt gears from moving effectively.
What is the solution? It’s critical, like with any transmission problem, to recognise the warning symptoms early and respond quickly. When your car is moving, listen for grinding noises and get expert assistance as soon as possible.
If the colour or condition of your vehicle’s transmission fluid has changed, the fluid levels are low, you see indicators of a leak, your transmission is sliding, or your transmission is overheating, it’s time to contact our expert team for assistance. Smart Mechanics‘ Car mechanic in Hertfordshire, Bishops Stortford, Stansted, and Essex are experts in ensuring your safety and the longevity of your vehicle. Make an appointment as soon as possible so you can get back on the road with peace of mind.