How to Identify a Transmission Fluid Leak in Your Car

If your car is leaking transmission fluid, it will typically leave a trail of reddish-brown fluid under the vehicle. In some cases, you may also notice a burning smell or see smoke coming from the area where the leak is located. If you think your car might be leaking transmission fluid, it’s important to have it checked out by a mechanic as soon as possible. Transmission fluid leaks can cause serious damage to your car’s transmission and should be repaired as soon as possible.

Continue below to learn how to identify a transmission fluid leak in your car.

Transmission Repair  Indianapolis Indiana 317-475-1846
Transmission Repair Indianapolis Indiana 317-475-1846

How Does a Car Transmission Work?

A car transmission is a metal box that contains the gears that transfer power from the engine to the wheels. The torque converter is what transfers the power from the engine to the transmission. The transmission then sends it to the differential, which is connected to the wheels. The transmission has two main parts: the gearbox and the clutch. The gearbox is what contains the gears that transfer power from the engine to the wheels. The clutch is what disengages the engine from the transmission so that the car can change gears.

There are two types of transmissions: manual and automatic. Manual transmissions have three pedals: the clutch, the brake, and the gas pedal. Automatic transmissions have two pedals: the brake and the gas pedal. The clutch is what allows the car to change gears. It is located between the engine and the transmission. The clutch disengages the engine from the transmission so that the car can change gears.

Causes of a Transmission Fluid Leak

Transmission fluid leaks are one of the most common problems car owners tend to face. Transmission fluid leaks can be very dangerous and can cause your car to break down. If you think you have a transmission fluid leak, it is important to take your car to an Indianapolis mechanic right away.

There are a few different ways that transmission fluid can leak. The most common way is through a hole in the transmission. Another way is when the seals around the transmission start to leak. Transmission fluid leaks can also happen when the gaskets or O-rings start to leak.

Signs of Transmission Fluid Leaks

If you notice a pool of fluid underneath your car, it is likely that you have a transmission fluid leak. Transmission fluid is typically red in color, so if you see a reddish fluid, it is most likely transmission fluid. Another way to tell if you have a transmission fluid leak is by checking the level of transmission fluid using the dip stick. If the fluid level is low, it is likely that there is a leak. Transmission fluid leaks can lead to serious problems if they are not fixed, so it is best to get them fixed as soon as possible.

If you think you have a transmission fluid leak, it is important to take your car to an auto repair shop in Indianapolis so they can fix the problem. Contact Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for transmission repair in Indianapolis, Indiana you can afford. We also offer auto service coupons and discounts!

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Here’s How to Tell if Your Transmission is Failing

Just because you own a car doesn’t mean you’re expected to be an expert mechanic. However, there are certain signs and symptoms you can keep an eye out for that may indicate a specific problem within your vehicle. Take your Transmission for example. Continue reading to learn the most common signs of failing transmission, and where to go in Indianapolis for superior automotive repair and service you can trust.

Indianapolis Transmission Repair 317-475-1846
Indianapolis Transmission Repair 317-475-1846

Common Problems Related to a Failing Transmission

There are many signs and symptoms that indicate a faulty or defective transmission, from whining, clunking, humming to slipping gears, dragging clutch, grinding, shaking, and more. However, the most common and detectable indications that your transmission is failing include burning smells, gear slipping issues, fluid leaks, and an illuminated check engine light.

Burn Smells

Do you smell something burning when you drive your car? This could be the transmission fluid burning up, which also means your transmission is overheating. So, if this is happening to you, it is likely due to low transmission fluid levels or very dirty transmission fluid content.

Gear Problems

If your car is refusing to go into gear, slipping gears, or a combination of both, you can safely assume it has to do with the problem within your transmission. If your cars refusing to go into gear, the most common causes are low or thickened transmission fluid, or because your shift cables or clutch linkage needs readjusting.

Fluid Leaks

Your transmission fluid plays a vital role in the overall operation and safety of your vehicle. As mentioned earlier, if you transmission fluids are low, your car will begin to show signs of trouble. If you have a leak in your transmission, then it is not capable of maintaining the proper fluid levels required to properly lubricate the inner workings of your transmission and engine. So, if you notice puddles of liquid underneath your car after it’s been sitting for a while, it could be a transmission leak.

Illuminated Check Engine Light

You can think you are check engine light for a number of warnings. On the other hand, it can be quite frustrating trying to figure out why your check engine light is on since there are so many reasons it could be. But if your check engine light does come on, it could very well be your transmission. Be sure to take it into an automotive mechanic to have it diagnosed before any further damages done to your vehicle.

Are you looking for an expert automotive mechanic for reliable auto repair and service? Contact Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for professional auto repair service in Indianapolis, Indiana at a price you can afford. We work on all make and model vehicles.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Car Transmissions
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Indianapolis Auto Repair and Service
Indianapolis Auto Repair and Service 317-475-1846

Frequently Asked Questions About Car Transmissions

Do you suspect that your car’s transmission is on the outs? If so, you may be full of questions. Continue reading to learn some important information about automotive transmissions, including common signs of transmission trouble.

Indianapolis Transmission Repair 317-475-1846

Indianapolis Transmission Repair 317-475-1846

What Does a Car Transmission Do?

Automotive transmissions are designed as automatic or manual. Cars with manual transmissions are also referred to as clutches or stick-shift vehicles. Automatic transmissions are the most common, and probably the type you drive. In basic terms, a transmission’s purpose is to convert speeds and torques along a vehicle’s drive train. This means it automatically changes a vehicle’s gear ratios, allowing it to drive within its narrow range of speeds, but still also providing a wide range of torque and output speeds.

What Does Transmission Fluid Do?

One of the seven essential automotive fluids is transmission fluid. Without it, your transmission cannot operate smoothly. Transmission fluid is intended to lubricate all these inner working parts, while also controlling and reducing heat produced from friction. It cools and lubricates so that everything stays in sync and in optimal working condition. It is an oil-based liquid with a red-like color, and can be purchased at any auto parts store or automotive store. As a car owner, you do not need to check your transmission fluid levels. Instead, have your car or truck serviced regularly, every 6 months or 5,000 miles, by a licensed mechanic.

When Should I Change My Transmission Fluid?

There are several different suggestions for transmission fluid changes, all of which vary depending on your driving style and the conditions in which you drive. This makes it difficult to know which recommendation is right for your vehicle. For automatic vehicles, most manufacturers will suggest changing the transmission fluid every 100,000 miles or so, but professional mechanics recommend doing so every 30,000 to 40,000 miles for optimal safety and performance. For manual transmission vehicles, most manufacturers will suggest changing the transmission fluid every 60,000 to 100,000 miles, but professional mechanics recommend doing so every 30,000 to 60,000 miles. Refer to your vehicle’s owners’ manual or your local Indianapolis auto repair shop for advice.

Do Car Transmissions Require Routine Maintenance?

Proper maintenance is vital for dependable transmission performance and longevity. Routine automotive services like regular inspections and tune-ups are important routine prevention tactics. Also, using proper fuel and fuel additives can greatly increase the performance and longevity of a car engine and transmission.

What are the Signs of Transmission Problems?

There are hundreds of symptoms a vehicle can experience when there is a problem with its transmission. However, there are 3 signs that you should always be on the lookout for. These include burning odors, transmission fluid leakage, and an illuminated check engine light. If you notice a puddle of red fluid beneath your vehicle, your transmission has a leak. If your check engine light comes on, it could be from a transmission problem. And if you smell a burning odor while driving, it could be a result of dirty transmission fluid.

Indianapolis Transmission Repair Experts

Northeast Auto Service

Northeast Auto Service 317-475-1846

Call Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for professional Indianapolis transmission repair you can trust. Our ASE certified car mechanics provide a wide range of automotive services for all make and model vehicles, foreign and domestic. Call 317-475-1846 to schedule a free inspection and estimate, anytime. Don’t forget to ask us about our auto repair coupons and discounts!

Is Your Transmission Trying to Telling You Something?

If you think you hear your transmission making noise, don’t waste any more time and drive directly to an auto repair shop. Never ignore an issue with a transmission. This is because a simple little problem can turn into a large costly one if neglected. Have a small issue fixed before an entire transmission replacement is needed. The type of issue and repair can often times be determined by the type of noise your transmission is making.

Continue reading to learn the common problematic noises and sounds a transmission makes when it needs service or repair.

Indianapolis Transmission Repair 317-475-1846

Indianapolis Transmission Repair 317-475-1846

Noisy Transmission

One of the most common causes of noisy transmissions is defective or corroded gears. The inner workings of a transmission can sometimes experience mounting issues, corrosion issues, and loose or faulty parts. All of these potential issues can happen one at a time, or in combination with each other.

In this case, the noises coming from the transmission would be a result of defective or loose pieces and parts moving around, and the friction they create while doing so. This is certainly a repair that needs immediate attention before an accident occurs or the transmission is destroyed completely. Keep in mind that replacing a transmission can cost anywhere from $800 to well over a thousand dollars, depending on the make and model, and whether it’s new or used.

Loose Transmission

Another common culprit behind strange and unusual transmission noises has to do with the way it’s connected to the vehicle. When a transmission is installed, it needs to be positively secured to the vehicle for safe and optimal performance. Over time, natural wear and tear or careless driving can cause the transmission connections to come loose, creating odd rattling noises. This also should be addressed as soon as possible.

If a transmission comes entirely loose from a vehicle while on the road, it can cause a fatal accident to other car and drivers. It will also require professional Indianapolis transmission repair and replacement, and ample time to have your vehicle put back together again.

One of the seven essential automotive fluids is transmission fluid. Without it, your transmission cannot operate smoothly. There needs to be ample lubrication for all the moving parts and gears within a transmission system. Without lubrication, intense friction and heat causes the parts to burn out and defect. This also causes loud screeching noises.

A simple and speedy transmission fluid re-fill is all your vehicle needs, every three to six months. Be sure to also check the filter to ensure its preventing debris from entering the transmission fluid. If the filter gets clogged up, it can cause weird noises too.

Indianapolis Transmission Repair You Can Trust!

Auto Repair Coupons Indianapolis IN 317-475-1846

Auto Repair Indianapolis 317-475-1846

Call Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for specialized transmission repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. We are ASE licensed and certified car mechanics who provide a wide range of foreign and domestic auto repair services, as well as, free estimates, coupons, car care advice, and more. Request a free estimate, today.

How to Detect Transmission Problems

Your transmission speaks up when it’s not feeling well. So when something is wrong, you will get the message. And since your transmission is among the most vital components in your vehicle, it is wise to listen. Fortunately, it is not as difficult as you think to diagnose basic transmission malfunctions on your own. Continue reading to learn how to detect transmission problems in your car or truck, and what to do if you discover an issue.

Loud or Strange Noises

When your car is being verbal, it is best to pay attention. Different sounds can mean different things. In gear, strange sounds generally indicate manageable problems, like low fluids and dirty filters. If your vehicle is noisy in neutral (whining, clunking, and humming), then you may have serious mechanical problems like a worn reverse idle gear or worn gear teeth and bearings. Mechanical problems are likely to require part replacements, so it is important to take your vehicle into a licensed mechanic if you hear sounds like this when your gears are in neutral.

Leaks

Whenever you see fluid leaking from your vehicle, you have reason to be alarmed. And it is critical to give it attention as soon as you are aware of any leak. Detecting a transmission fluid leak is easy since transmission fluid is red, translucent, and sweet-smelling. If you see a suspicious liquid with these characteristics, then it’s probably transmission fluid. In most cases, transmission fluid leaks are a result of a more serious issue so it is necessary to bring your car into an auto repair shop for professional service. If you check on your transmission fluid, and it is dark or smells burnt, it is time replace it with fresh fluid.

Burning Smell

When you can smell burnt transmission fluid, which smells a little sweet, it is a sign of overheating. One of the common causes for this is low transmission fluid, but it can be caused by other issues too, such as dirty filters or leak. This problem requires professional service from a licensed mechanic.

Check Engine Light

When your check engine light illuminates, it can mean a long list of things. And this can be frustrating. You must look for other clues to give you an indication of why it came on. Sometimes a simple open gas cap is the cause, while other times it can indicate something more serious. In terms of your transmission, the check engine light might come on if your vehicle’s computer picks up on some irregularities in the engine. An auto repair shop has the proper diagnostic equipment to identify the reason for your check engine light lighting up.

Indianapolis Transmission Repair

Northeast Auto Service

Northeast Auto Service 317-475-1846

Call Northeast Auto at 317-475-1846 for Indianapolis transmission repair you can trust. We are ASE certified car mechanics that have decades of experience servicing and repairing domestic and import vehicles. We are a full-service shop that offers a wide range of factory scheduled maintenance and repair, all at the most competitive prices in town. We also offer auto repair coupons! Call 317-475-1846 to request a free estimate for transmission service in Indianapolis, Indiana today.