What is the AT warning light?
2 Answers
AT is the transmission warning light. When the AT light is on, symptoms such as jerking, abnormal noises, slipping, and impact may occur, which require timely repair. The reasons for the transmission warning light being on are as follows: Transmission computer or electronic component failure: Since the transmission signals need to be processed by the computer, first check if there is a fault in the computer control system. Restart the car's computer control panel. If the warning light does not come on, it indicates no fault and the system has issued a false alarm due to a computer system issue. If the fault persists after restarting but no abnormalities are observed during driving (such as gear shifts, speed, etc.) and no abnormal noises are produced, it suggests that the transmission's electronic components may be damaged. Solution: The car can continue to operate normally, but it should be taken to a professional repair shop for inspection and replacement of damaged electronic components. Transmission fluid contamination or severe shortage: Check if the transmission fluid has turned black or has a noticeable burnt smell, indicating that contaminants have clogged the solenoid valve. Solution: Visit a nearby professional repair shop for transmission fluid addition or replacement, and have a professional conduct a comprehensive inspection of the transmission to completely eliminate the fault.
The AT warning light is actually the automatic transmission's alert indicator, which I've encountered several times while driving. Every time it illuminates, I know there's an issue with the transmission, possibly due to low fluid levels or dirty/blackened fluid. Once on the highway, the light suddenly came on, causing sluggish gear shifts and vibrations, which scared me into pulling over immediately to check the dipstick. If the fluid level is insufficient, it needs topping up, but if the problem persists, towing to a repair shop for diagnostics is necessary. Common causes also include sensor failures or mechanical wear, and prolonged neglect can lead to repair costs easily exceeding tens of thousands. For maintenance, I recommend regularly changing transmission fluid and filters to keep it clean and extend transmission life. Remember, when the light comes on, prioritize safety by stopping immediately—don't continue driving to avoid damaging critical components.