Have you noticed strange grinding or whining sounds from below when you shift gears? Are your gears less smooth, delayed, or even refusing to shift at all? Is there a puddle of red fluid under the front of your car? If you’re experiencing any of the transmission problems laid out below, it’s time to visit your local Ford dealer for prompt transmission service and repair.
Whining or Grinding Sounds
When in good shape, transmissions should shift smoothly and silently. If you hear whining sounds, your gearbox might have insufficient lubrication. You’ll need to have the transmission fluid, lines, filter, and pump inspected for faults.
Metallic grinding might indicate more serious trouble as gears or other moving parts are rubbing roughly against each other. Clunking or gurgling sounds also shouldn’t be ignored.
Delayed Gear Engagement
Delayed engagement means that the gears take a few seconds longer than usual to fully engage after you shift. As gear shifting should be instantaneous, any delay indicates a potentially serious problem. There might be an issue with the solenoid, seals, bands, pump, filter, or gear sets. A technician will need to diagnose and repair the fault.
Slipping or Sticking Gears
If your engine starts revving loudly when you shift gears, or you find it hard to accelerate, then your gears might be slipping. A slipping transmission can also cause the gears to suddenly slip into neutral all on their own, which is hazardous while on the road. Slipping might be caused by a worn-out clutch, or by a number of other malfunctions. Likewise, gears that stick and refuse to shift at all are usually a serious sign of gearbox trouble.
Leaking Transmission Fluid
Transmission fluid is essential for proper gearbox performance. If your transmission fluid ever leaks, you might notice a clear, pink, red, or light brown fluid pooling under your car.
You can use the dipstick to check the level of transmission fluid. If it’s low, you’ll need to have it topped up. If it’s a dirty brown color, you’ll probably need to flush and replace it with fresh fluid.
Burning Smells in the Cabin
Transmission fluid is very durable but gradually wears down over time and can eventually start to burn in the heat of the transmission. If this occurs, you might detect a burning smell in the cabin above. Your burning transmission fluid will need to be changed.
How Often to Have Transmission Servicing at Your Ford Dealer
Transmission fluid typically needs to be flushed every 60,000 to 100,000 miles for most drivers of automatic vehicles. If you have a manual car, you’ll need to flush your transmission fluid every 30,000 to 6,000 miles. During your routine maintenance visits, ask a trusted technician to keep an eye on the condition and level of your transmission fluid. Visit Auffenberg Ford Belleville in Belleville, IL, today to have your transmission checked and serviced by qualified professionals. We’re a local full-service dealership offering the region’s drivers high-quality vehicles, deals, and customer service.
Connect with us
