What Causes the Abnormal Noise in Automatic Transmission?

[WilliamAnn]

Here are the specific reasons for abnormal noise in automatic transmission: Bearing wear and damage: When bearings wear out, the gap increases and the fit precision decreases; when bearings are damaged, they cannot operate normally, resulting in abnormal sounds and even causing damage to transmission components, leading to further malfunctions. Long-term failure to replace transmission fluid: The transmission fluid becomes thick and loses its fluidity, which means there is no protective layer between components, leading to direct friction that exacerbates mechanical wear and causes abnormal noise. Using inferior transmission fluid: Inferior transmission fluid has poor heat resistance and is prone to oxidation, forming sludge and residue that can clog filters and oil passages, increasing friction between internal components of the automatic transmission and causing abnormal noise in the vehicle.

[DeRyan]

I've encountered the issue of strange noises coming from the automatic transmission several times. From my experience, common causes include insufficient or deteriorated transmission fluid. When the fluid ages, it loses its lubricating properties, causing internal gears to creak. Another possibility is wear and tear on the clutch or torque converter, where excessive friction during normal use produces grinding sounds. If left unaddressed, the problem may worsen, leading to valve body damage or electrical failures, making gear shifts more difficult. I recommend first checking the color and level of the transmission fluid yourself. If it appears dark or contains debris, replace it immediately. It's best to visit a repair shop early for a full diagnostic scan to prevent minor noises from turning into costly major repairs. Also, drive gently in daily use—avoid sudden acceleration to reduce stress on the transmission and extend component lifespan. With proper maintenance, many noise issues can be easily resolved.

[LaLaura]

My automatic transmission car also made strange noises a few days ago, mainly a clicking sound when reversing. After checking, I found that the transmission belt was loose, and long-term driving had caused it to wear and deform. Sometimes, there were also issues with the oil pump, leading to poor fuel supply and overheating of the internal gears, which caused noise. Looking back, I might have driven too aggressively, often stomping on the accelerator when accelerating uphill, which accelerated component aging. Don’t take this lightly—once the transmission fails, repairs can be extremely expensive. A friend of mine spent several thousand dollars fixing his. I usually make it a habit to check the fluids every 5,000 kilometers. When changing the oil, you can also check if the sensors are functioning properly, as this can prevent many issues. Try to shift gears smoothly while driving, especially in winter—don’t rush to accelerate after a cold start. Letting the fluids warm up can reduce the noise. Addressing small problems early saves both hassle and money.

[OMaggie]

The noise from the automatic transmission is quite annoying. It sounds like metal grinding, possibly due to gear set wear or looseness caused by natural aging of vehicle components over several years of driving. Insufficient lubricant is also a reason, as low oil levels prevent smooth operation. In some cases, a clogged filter screen with accumulated dirt affects fluid flow, requiring timely cleaning or replacement. It's recommended to first stop and check the oil dipstick to ensure the oil level is above the normal line. Continuing to drive with the noise risks overheating or even oil leakage from the transmission, not to mention ignoring potential safety hazards, as sometimes the noise is a precursor to loss of control. Don't wait until it gets serious to repair; regular maintenance is key.