Expert Transmission Services to Prevent Slipping

A healthy transmission is crucial for your car to run smoothly. Whether you’re navigating the busy streets of Vancouver, Burnaby, Coquitlam, Langley, New Westminster, Richmond, Surrey, or Chilliwack, a reliable transmission is essential for a safe and enjoyable driving experience. One common issue that can plague transmissions is slipping. This frustrating and concerning problem can leave you wondering what’s happening under the hood. In this blog from Minit-Tune & Brake Auto Centres, we’ll break down the basics of transmission function, common causes of slipping, and the telltale signs to watch out for.

Understanding Your Transmission

Your car’s transmission is responsible for transferring the power generated by the engine to the wheels, enabling your vehicle to move. This ensures that your wheels receive the right amount of power to drive at a specific speed. Both manual and automatic transmissions are designed to provide smooth and efficient power transfer. However, when issues like slipping arise, it can significantly impact your car’s performance.

Several factors can contribute to a slipping transmission, regardless of whether it’s automatic or manual. Here are some of the most common culprits:

• Low Transmission Fluid: Transmission fluid acts as a lubricant and coolant, keeping everything running smoothly. If the fluid level is low, it can’t properly lubricate the moving parts, leading to slipping and overheating. Leaks frequently cause low fluid, so watch for puddles under your car.
• Contaminated or Burnt Fluid: Transmission fluid can degrade over time due to heat and friction, losing its lubricating properties and leading to problems similar to low fluid levels.
• Worn Clutch Plates (Manual Transmission): The clutch connects the engine to the transmission. Worn-out clutch plates can’t grip properly, leading to slipping when you try to engage a gear.
• Faulty Solenoids (Automatic Transmission): Solenoids are electronically controlled valves regulating fluid flow. A malfunctioning solenoid can disrupt proper gear engagement, causing slipping.
• Damaged Transmission Bands (Automatic Transmission): These bands help the transmission change gears. Worn or broken bands can contribute to slipping and erratic shifting.

Signs Your Transmission Needs Attention

If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, it is important to have your transmission checked by a qualified technician:

• RPMs Rev High Without Acceleration: This is a classic sign of a slipping transmission. The engine revs as if trying to move the car forward, but you’re not gaining much speed.
• Difficulty Shifting Gears (Manual Transmission): The clutch pedal may feel soft or spongy, or you might encounter grinding noises when shifting gears.
• Delayed Engagement or Harsh Shifting: The transmission may hesitate to change gears or shift abruptly, causing a jerky driving experience.
• Burning Smell: A burning odour from the engine bay could indicate overheating transmission fluid.

Preventive Maintenance

The good news is that proper maintenance can prevent transmission problems. Here are some key tips:

• Regular Transmission Fluid Service: Refer to your owner’s manual for recommended intervals for transmission fluid changes and flushes. This helps remove contaminants and ensures optimal lubrication.
• Avoid Aggressive Driving: Rapid acceleration, harsh braking, and excessive towing put extra strain on your transmission. Take it easy, especially when the car is cold.
• Don’t Ignore Warning Signs: If you notice any symptoms of transmission trouble, don’t delay! Early detection and repair can prevent a more expensive and extensive fix.

Transmission Repairs in BC

At Minit-Tune & Brake Auto Centres, our certified technicians have the expertise to diagnose and repair all transmission problems.  Whether you’re in Vancouver, Burnaby, Coquitlam, Langley, Westminster, Richmond, Surrey, or Chilliwack, we can help you keep your car running smoothly and safely. Call Minit-Tune & Brake Auto Centres at your nearest location today to have your transmission assessed. We’ll ensure your car is ready to tackle any road in BC without worrying about slipping gears!