How to Determine Transmission Damage?
2 Answers
Symptoms of a damaged transmission in a car: 1. Sluggish response: When shifting gears feels unsmooth or even difficult, it indicates a problem with the transmission. 2. Automatic transmission fails to upshift: The automatic transmission can shift into 2nd gear while driving but cannot shift into 3rd gear or overdrive. 3. Burnt smell: If you detect a burnt odor from the transmission fluid, it suggests the transmission is overheating. 4. Engine stalls when shifting: After starting the car, shifting the gear lever from P or N to another position causes the engine to stall, or the engine stalls when braking to a stop while driving.
I remember that after driving for so many years, what I fear most is transmission problems because when that thing breaks, it often leads to major issues. I've noticed that when the transmission is damaged, the car often behaves strangely, such as gear shifts becoming extremely rough, suddenly slipping into neutral while driving in D gear, or acceleration being as sluggish as a turtle crawling. Listening to the sounds is also a good method—normally it’s very quiet, but when damaged, it may hum or make clunking noises, especially noticeable during low-speed turns. Additionally, you should check for oil stains on the ground, as transmission fluid leaks are a common cause. Be alert if the fluid is dark-colored or has a burnt smell. The last time I encountered this situation, I immediately checked the dashboard—the warning light was on, but I ignored it and almost ended up stranded. For safety, it's best to drive to a repair shop promptly and have it checked with a diagnostic tool. Regular maintenance can also prevent issues, such as periodic fluid changes and filter inspections—these small details can save you a lot of money.
