What are the symptoms of a transmission failure in the Buick Regal?
2 Answers
Buick Regal transmission failure symptoms: 1. Difficulty shifting gears and jerking sensation: When starting or driving, shifting gears feels stiff and laborious, accompanied by jerking, vibration, and a noticeable lurch. 2. Automatic transmission gear slam and impact sensation (valve body failure): During low or medium-speed driving, the car exhibits obvious jerking and lurching, while the tachometer needle on the dashboard fluctuates up and down. During medium-high-speed driving, sudden acceleration causes the car to slip, with the tachometer needle rapidly rising and a strong impact sensation. 3. Transmission noise and loud sounds: When idling, driving, or under heavy load, unusual noises or even loud sounds are heard from the transmission. There may also be irregular, dull sounds during gear shifts. 4. Overheating transmission: The computer displays a warning while driving.
As a Buick Regal owner who has driven this car for several years, I've personally experienced various symptoms of transmission failure. The most obvious sign is strong jerking during gear shifts, like being pushed and then stuck, especially common when decelerating or starting. Slipping is also annoying—stepping on the gas but the speed doesn't increase, with the engine whirring in vain. Noise issues shouldn't be ignored either, with friction-like clattering sounds during acceleration or uphill driving that make your heart race. Occasionally, the drivetrain warning light on the dashboard will illuminate, indicating an immediate check is needed. Don’t underestimate these small signals—once they worsen, the car might suddenly stop, which is very dangerous on highways. I recommend regularly checking transmission fluid, as low levels or aging are common triggers. Buick models are prone to such issues, and while maintenance costs may be high, prevention is always better than major repairs—safety comes first.