What are the symptoms of a damaged AT automatic transmission?
2 Answers
AT automatic transmission damage may manifest as abnormal noises, overheating, or slipping issues. Below are detailed explanations: Transmission Abnormal Noises: Symptoms: Unusual sounds or loud noises from the transmission during idling, driving, or under high load, with irregular, dull noises during gear shifts. Causes: Prolonged high temperatures degrade the transmission fluid's anti-wear and lubricating properties, leading to wear or severe damage to bearings, gears, or gear surfaces. Action: Consult transmission specialists immediately for professional advice before proceeding. Transmission Overheating: Symptoms: The computer alerts to high transmission temperature while driving, or the transmission feels excessively hot to touch after driving. Causes: Inability to effectively control temperature under high load, or slipping can cause overheating. In some dual-clutch transmissions, friction from clutch plates during low-speed crawling generates excessive heat. Action: Pull over and let the vehicle rest for a few minutes before restarting. Seek professional repair if the issue persists. Transmission Slipping: Symptoms: Engine revving without corresponding speed increase when accelerating (similar to pressing the throttle in P or N gear), or normal driving on flat roads but poor uphill performance with high engine RPM. Causes: Excessive hydraulic fluid creating bubbles when agitated, or worn/burnt clutch/brake friction materials.
The most obvious symptom of a faulty AT automatic transmission is severe gear shifting jerks, where accelerating during normal driving suddenly feels like someone kicked you. Last time on the highway, I experienced the throttle being pressed, the RPM soaring, but the speed not increasing—this is a classic slipping phenomenon. Sometimes, there’s a delay of about ten seconds when shifting gears; even after shifting to D, the car just won’t move, which is incredibly frustrating. If you hear clunking metal impact sounds, stop and check immediately—it’s likely a gear issue. The most critical thing to watch for is the transmission warning light on the dashboard; if that yellow gear symbol lights up, head to a repair shop right away. Transmission fluid leaks are also common—if you see red oil stains under the car, don’t hesitate, get it fixed promptly.