What Causes Transmission Failure?

[LaClayton]

There are many reasons for transmission failure, such as excessively high oil temperature, prolonged high temperatures, and overheating of the transmission. Below is a detailed explanation of these causes: Excessively high oil temperature: Due to excessively high transmission oil temperature, stubborn dirt and impurities form blockages inside the transmission, causing the solenoid valves to move poorly and fail to regulate oil pressure, resulting in transmission jerking. Prolonged high temperatures: Under prolonged high-temperature conditions, the anti-wear and lubricating properties of the transmission oil deteriorate, leading to wear or severe wear of components such as bearings and gears inside the transmission, or damage to the gear sides. Overheating of the transmission: Causes rubber sealing materials to harden and age, resulting in poor sealing and leaks, ultimately leading to reduced hydraulic pressure and, in severe cases, transmission damage.

[EverlyAnn]

I remember when I was driving, the transmission suddenly had issues. When shifting gears, the car felt like it was slipping, extremely unstable, and it almost scared me to death. Later, I took it to the repair shop for a check-up, and the mechanic said it might be due to the transmission fluid leaking out or being too dirty, causing internal parts to wear out. Replacing a set of new parts cost me over a thousand dollars. Transmission failures can actually have various causes, such as insufficient or dirty fluid leading to overheating and seizing of the gears, or a faulty control module in an automatic transmission causing chaotic gear shifts. Since then, I've made it a habit to regularly check the fluid level and color. Fresh fluid should be red and odorless; if it turns black or has a strange smell, it needs to be replaced immediately. Additionally, aggressive driving like sudden acceleration can accelerate wear and tear, so I try to drive smoothly. If you spot a problem, fixing it early can save money and ensure safety—don’t wait until it becomes a major issue.

[Angel]

Transmission failures mainly occur in several common areas. Insufficient or contaminated oil is the most prevalent issue, as oil leaks can lead to excessive friction and overheating, directly damaging the gears. Additionally, oil that is too thick or too thin affects lubrication, causing slipping noises. Another key factor is component fatigue; after high mileage, bearings or clutch plates wear out, making dangerous clicking sounds during gear shifts. Electronic control problems are also common, with faulty sensors or computer boards in automatic transmission models causing rough shifting or even power interruptions. For troubleshooting, start with the basics—use a dipstick to check oil level and condition, and replace or clean the oil promptly. Long-term maintenance is crucial; professional servicing every 40,000 kilometers is recommended to significantly reduce failure rates and repair costs.

[MacMarley]

Transmission failure is extremely dangerous. I experienced it while driving on the highway. Once problems occur, such as being unable to shift gears or experiencing shaking, it can easily lead to loss of control and a crash. You should immediately pull over, turn off the engine, and turn on the hazard lights while waiting for assistance. Causes include oil leaks leading to mechanical jamming or electronic module failures causing the automatic system to malfunction. For prevention, pay attention to daily warning signs: jerky gear shifts, unusual noises, or oil leak spots. Early inspections can prevent major issues. If a fault is detected, do not delay—seek a mechanic immediately.