
Warning signs of Teana transmission failure are as follows: Transmission slipping: While driving, you may hear the engine revving without acceleration when pressing the throttle. Transmission fluid leakage: Oil leakage can lead to insufficient lubrication inside the transmission. Transmission jerking: Strong impacts, vibrations, and jerking sensations occur during gear shifting. Transmission abnormal noise: Unusual sounds or even loud noises can be heard from the transmission when the car is idling, driving, or under high-load conditions. Transmission overheating: The computer alerts you of excessively high transmission temperature while driving, or you may feel the transmission is overheating or even too hot to touch after driving for a while.

I've been driving my old Teana for seven years, and there were indeed signs before the transmission problems occurred. The most obvious was the car jerking at low speeds, like someone was tugging at your steering wheel. Once, right after starting, I shifted to D gear and the engine revved for three seconds before moving—later I learned it was due to insufficient transmission oil pressure. The 'clunking' noise during gear shifts was also quite annoying, especially noticeable in quiet underground garages. When my fuel consumption suddenly increased by over 2 liters, I became alert. Upon disassembly, we found metal shavings from the worn valve body. Now, whenever I hear a 'humming' sound, I have to check the dashboard, fearing the warning light might come on. My advice is to replace the original NS-3 fluid early and change the filter together to save on major repair costs.

Our fleet has over a dozen Teanas running ride-hailing services, and we've seen plenty of transmission issues. First, the jerking sensation worsens, especially when accelerating at 30 mph—it feels like a sudden kick. One car's transmission temperature gauge kept hitting 120°C, and eventually, the steel belt started slipping. If the reversing camera lags, it's a red flag—usually a sign of an electronic control unit problem. The scariest case we've seen was a sudden lock in 3rd gear on the highway, with the throttle floored but only reaching 60 mph. Now, our mechanics regularly use scanners to read fault codes, and replacing the valve body with an improved version in advance can save tens of thousands of dollars.

Last time I helped my neighbor check his 2009 Teana, the gear engagement was extremely rough when cold, but improved after warming up. This is a classic warning sign. Never ignore a burning smell from the transmission - I've encountered cases of burnt clutch plates. Be cautious if you hear 'thudding' noises from the chassis during low-speed turns, as it might indicate failed differential bearings. The newer CVT control modules are prone to water intrusion nowadays - many cases of gear engagement failure after heavy rains. If repair is needed, a domestic improved valve body can solve the problem for just over 3,000 yuan, which is much more cost-effective than replacing the entire assembly.


