Most people know that a failing transmission can signal major trouble for the overall operation of their vehicle, and that a costly repair bill could be in the not-so-distant future. In addition to the price tag, however, driving with a transmission that is not up to par can actually be quite dangerous. The good news is that, when your transmission begins failing, there will be several key signs letting you know that you need to get your car to a mechanic right away. Follow along with this guide for help identifying some of the signs of a bad transmission in Conway, AR before it’s too late:
- Slipping transmission: The term “slipping transmission” is used when the system wears down to the point that the clutch may intermittently slip into gears instead of actively separating from one gear before engaging with the next. As your transmission will have to work much harder to combat this and maintain efficiency, you will likely be able to feel this labored effort while you are driving in the form of abrupt, jerking movements from your car.
- Transmission fluid: Just like the oil in your engine and brake systems, transmission fluid is responsible for keeping all of the gears lubricated for optimal operation. When these parts begin grinding against each other, you may hear a whining sound every time you drive. Although it might seem like such a small part of maintenance to keep up with, neglecting fluid changes can lead to a blown transmission.
- Transmission neglect: Not only is driving with a failing transmission a bad idea, but it can also be downright dangerous for you and others around you. Transmission systems behave unpredictably when problems are present, and at any moment your car could shift into a different gear and take off without your control, crashing into another car or object in front of you. Even worse, your transmission could eventually become completely unresponsive if it’s in need of repair for too long.
If you have noticed any of these signs and believe that your transmission has started to fail, you will want to get your vehicle to your trusted auto shop right away. No one wants to deal with the costs associated with a full transmission replacement, or the danger that a failing transmission can put you and your passengers in when on the road. That’s why it’s so important to stay alert and always be on the lookout for any signs of a bad transmission in Conway, AR.
Immediate action is key, and our team at Riverdale Automotive understands this heightened sense of urgency when it comes to a failing transmission. You can rely on us to quickly diagnose the issue and take care of all the necessary repairs that will keep you and your vehicle safe, without breaking your budget. To avoid an expensive headache down the road, give us a call to schedule an appointment or pay us a visit today. We’d be happy to take a look at your vehicle and let you know what’s going on with it!