Top Reasons For Transmission Problems

TROUBLE SHIFTING GEARS

  • The clutch pedal will not push down or drops to the floor when pushed.
  • Gears cannot be changed or the gear shift suddenly will not move.

TRANSMISSION SEEMS TO BE SLIPPING

A common symptom would be if you move the selector for your automatic transmission to "Drive" and the engine seems to be racing ahead (high RPM) faster than your transmission.

TRANSMISSION FLUID LEAKING

If you see low fluid levels, you may have a leak.

VEHICLE IS INOPERATIVE

It could be your transmissions or something else, our experts will be able to diagnose the problem.

NOISE IN THE TRANSMISSION

Normally transmissions are virtually noise-free, if you hear noise coming from your transmission, it may indicate that transmission parts are contacting each other abnormally.

CHECK ENGINE LIGHT IS ON

It could be your transmissions or something else, our experts will be able to diagnose the problem.


These are just a few of the hundreds of codes, causes and symptoms. Each has multiple fixes.
Our expertise in vehicle diagnostics means we can quickly pinpoint what is causing your CHECK ENGINE LIGHT to come on and we will recommend only what needs repair. Fixed right on the first visit, every time!

VEHICLE WARNING INDICATORS

Check Engine or Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL):

Indicates the engine computer has set a Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC). Usually requires diagnosis with a professional scan tool. Learn the top five reasons why your check engine light is illuminated.

Battery/Charging Alert:

Indicates voltage level is below normal level and the vehicle's charging system is not functioning properly. Check battery terminals, alternator belt, and battery condition.

Coolant Temp Warning:

Indicates temperature has exceeded normal limits. Check coolant level, fan operation, radiator cap, coolant leaks.

Transmission Temperature:

Transmission is operating at higher than optimum temperature as transmission fluid is hotter than normal. Check transmission fluid level and engine coolant level.

Oil Pressure Warning:

If this light stays lit, it indicates loss of oil pressure. Immediately check oil level and pressure.

Oil Change Reminder:

Indicates that oil life has expired. This is monitored by the ECM; the interval can be mileage or a combination of readings taken by the ECM. The reset procedure is listed in the owner's manual. Some vehicles require the use of special tools to reset the light.

Service Vehicle Soon:

Typically indicates a lighting or other electrical problem that is controlled by the BCM (body control module). Check all lights (head lights, turn signals, brake lights, and hazard lights). This symbol may also be used to warn driver of a traction control problem, or a communication problem between modules.

TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System):

Indicates the tire pressure monitoring system has found a tire with low air pressure or there may be a sensor malfunction. Check tire pressure. Some vehicles will allow manual reset of TPMS warning light and others will require professional diagnosis. Refer to owner's manual.

Brake System:

Indicates one of three possible conditions: parking brake is on; problem with the braking system/brake fluid is low, or ABS problem. Check brake fluid and make sure the parking brake is fully released. If the problem is in the ABS system, it may need a professional diagnosis.

Reduced Power Warning:

Indicates Engine Computer has limited engine power output. The ECM has many levels of reduced power depending on what component has failed in its control system. Usually requires diagnosis with a professional scan tool.

ABS Light:

Indicates that the Anti-lock Brake computer has set a code and needs professional diagnosis./td>

Gas Cap:

The check gas cap light indicates that the gas cap is not tightened properly. If not addressed, quite often the Check Engine Light will also illuminate.

Cruise Control:

Indicates that cruise control is set during driving.

ESP Fault:

Indicates that there is a problem with the vehicle's traction control/anti-skid or electronic stability system.

Security Alert:

If the symbol lights momentarily it may mean that the ignition switch is locked and will need the proper transponder-equipped key to re-start. If the symbol is visible when the vehicle is on, then it typically indicates a malfunction in the security system.

Lamp Out:

Indicates that there is an exterior light on the vehicle that is not functioning properly.

Traction Control or ESP:

Illuminates when the vehicle's traction control/anti-skid or electronic stability system is in use. Usually an indicator that conditions are slippery.

Door Ajar:

Indicates that a door (including hood and trunk) is not closed. Open and close all doors, including hood and trunk. If vehicle is left in this condition overnight it can drain the battery.

Overdrive Light:

This symbol indicates that the vehicle's overdrive system has been manually turned off. Typically the overdrive system is controlled by an on/off switch.

Airbag Fault:

If this light stays illuminated after starting, it indicates that the vehicle has found a fault in the airbag system and the computer has set a code. Professional repair of the supplemental restraint system is highly recommended.

Washer Fluid Reminder:

Indicates washer fluid is low. Fill washer fluid reservoir. The cap has a symbol that looks like a windshield. Some vehicles have separate reservoirs for front and rear window washers.

Fog Lamp:

Indicates that the vehicle's front fog lamps are illuminated.

Glow Plug (Diesel):

On diesel vehicles this light indicates that the engine's glow plugs are warming up and the engine should not be started until this light goes out.

DPF Light (Diesel):

The diesel exhaust particulate filter has failed its test and needs to be serviced.

DEF Light (Diesel):

The diesel exhaust fluid reservoir is low on fluid.

 

BRAKES

Your brake system is the most important safety feature on your car. That's why it is important to make sure that you have the parts, tools, and knowledge to do the job right. Check out our auto brakes articles below and learn everything you need to know.

BRAKING SYSTEM WEAR

If you ever feel uncertain about your brakes, it's a good call to inspect them: check pads for signs of uneven or excessive wear, look for signs of cracks or uneven wear on the rotor's surface, and inspect calipers for leaking fluid or stuck pistons. You can learn a lot about your braking system by paying attention to abnormal brake pad wear patterns.

  • Tapered Wear: Worn out caliper bushings and/or worn caliper hardware
  • One-Sided Wear: Faulty caliper or caliper piston hanging; caliper slide not functioning
  • Grooved Surface: Rotors should be replaced
  • Chipped Surface: Excessive heat build-up, caliper or caliper piston hanging up creating constant friction
  • Step in Lining: Pads not in full contact. Replace guide pin/mounting bolt bushings and caliper hardware
  • Cracked Surface: Excessive heat build-up, caliper or caliper piston hanging up creating constant friction

SIGNS YOUR BRAKES NEED TO BE REPLACED

  • Squealing from wear sensors can inform you that your pads need to be replaced
  • Squeaking & Grinding can indicate excessive wear or damage to your pads and rotors
  • Fluid leaking on the ground can eventually lead to a loss of brake pressure
  • Pedal that pulsates or travels too close to the floorboard can happen with excessive pad wear
  • Pulling the vehicle to one side can also indicate your pads need replacing