What are the fault diagnosis methods for automatic transmissions?
2 Answers
Automatic transmission fault diagnosis methods are: 1. After the engine is warmed up, engage P or N gear, turn off the air conditioning, and check the idle speed; 2. Check the throttle position cable and sensor; 3. Check the automatic transmission fluid quality; 4. Engage P or N gear and push the vehicle; 5. Check the P or N gear start switch; 6. Move the gear lever from P position to other positions one by one to check if the gear lever moves smoothly. The functions of the transmission are: 1. Change the transmission ratio to meet the traction needs under different driving conditions; 2. Achieve reverse driving; 3. Interrupt power transmission; 4. Achieve neutral gear.
I've been driving for over a decade and have dealt with automatic transmission issues several times, mainly relying on simple checks and accumulated experience. Checking the transmission fluid is crucial: open the hood, pull out the dipstick to check the level and color—it should normally be bright red with no unusual odor. If it's black or has a burnt smell, internal wear might be the issue. Start the engine, shift gears, and test-drive while observing whether the shifts are smooth or if there's any slipping sensation or shaking, as these symptoms can indicate problem areas. If there's a warning light on the dashboard, prioritize reading the fault codes, which can be done at home with a small scanner. I usually perform regular oil changes for maintenance, about every 30,000 kilometers, to prevent minor issues from accumulating. If anything feels off, I immediately take it to a professional shop for diagnosis—technicians can use equipment to check circuits, sensors, or valve body issues efficiently, saving time and effort. Delaying repairs can make them more expensive and dangerous.
