4 Signs of a Transmission Problem that You Shouldn’t Ignore

Roswell Transmission • Mar 25, 2024

When transmission issues arise, they often worsen quickly. This makes it important to get your car to the shop at the first indication of a transmission issue. At Roswell Transmission and Car Care, we provide expert transmission repair in the greater Roswell, GA area. Here’s a look at four warning signs of transmission trouble.


Strange Noises

Abnormal transmission noises can vary from a whining or buzzing sound to a clunking or grinding noise. When you hear these sounds, especially while shifting gears, it's essential to pay attention. Strange noises can arise from a variety of issues, from low transmission fluid to worn-out bearings.


Difficulty Shifting Gears

Difficulty shifting gears is another common sign of transmission trouble. You may notice hesitation or resistance when changing gears, whether you drive a manual or automatic transmission vehicle. In a manual transmission, this could indicate issues with the clutch, such as worn-out clutch plates or a malfunctioning clutch linkage. For automatic transmissions, problems shifting gears smoothly might be due to low transmission fluid, a faulty solenoid, or a more severe internal issue.


Delayed Engagement

Delayed engagement occurs when there's a noticeable delay between shifting into gear and feeling the transmission engage. You might experience a delay in acceleration after shifting between park, drive, and reverse. This delay could be caused by various factors, including low transmission fluid or a worn-out torque converter.  If you notice this symptom, it's important to have your transmission inspected promptly to prevent further damage.


Fluid Leaks

Transmission fluid is essential for lubricating moving parts within the transmission and maintaining optimal performance. If you spot reddish-colored leaks underneath your vehicle, there’s a good chance that it’s transmission fluid. Transmission fluid leaks can occur due to issues such as damaged seals and worn-out gaskets. Driving with low transmission fluid levels can lead to overheating and serious damage to your transmission. Therefore, it's essential to address fluid leaks promptly.


Transmission Repair in Roswell, GA

For transmission service in Roswell, GA and the surrounding area, contact Roswell Transmission and Car Care at (770) 635-5971. Feel free to give us a call today to make an appointment! 

By Roswell Transmission and Car Care 24 Apr, 2024
Your car's cooling system is crucial for maintaining optimal engine temperature and preventing overheating. Ignoring cooling system issues can lead to costly repairs and even engine damage. Being aware of the signs of a cooling system problem is important for every car owner. At Roswell Transmission and Car Care, we provide expert cooling system repair in the greater Roswell, GA area. Here’s a look at four symptoms of a cooling system problem. Temperature Gauge Is Spiking One of the most obvious signs of a cooling system problem is that your dashboard temperature gauge spikes into the red zone, indicating overheating. In such a situation, you should safely pull over and allow your car to cool before investigating the source of the problem. Leaking Coolant Coolant is vital for regulating your engine's temperature. If you notice puddles of brightly-colored fluid under your car after it has been parked, there’s a good chance that coolant is leaking from the system. Leaks can occur due to various reasons such as a damaged hose, a corroded radiator, or a faulty water pump. Ignoring coolant leaks can lead to engine overheating and major engine trouble. Visible Steam/Smoke If you see steam or smoke coming from under the hood of your car, it's a sign of a serious cooling system problem. This often indicates that coolant is leaking onto hot engine components and evaporating, creating steam. Continuing to drive your vehicle under these conditions can cause severe damage to the engine. Pull over quickly and safely, and then allow the engine to cool down before assessing the situation or seeking professional help. Strange Smells Coolant has a distinct odor that is often described as sweet or sugary. If you notice this smell while driving or after parking your car, it's important to investigate the source. Ignoring coolant leaks can lead to very costly engine problems. Cooling System Repair in Roswell, GA When you need auto repair in Roswell, GA and the surrounding area, contact Roswell Transmission and Car Care at (770) 635-5971. Feel free to give us a call today to schedule an appointment!
By Roswell Transmission & Car Care 26 Feb, 2024
Recognizing the signs of engine trouble early on can save you from potential breakdowns and higher repair bills. When you first notice an indication of an engine issue, it’s best to bring it to the mechanic’s attention. At Roswell Transmission and Car Care, we provide expert engine repair in the greater Roswell, GA area. Here’s a look at five warning signs of an engine problem. Strange Noises Unusual sounds coming from the engine are a common sign of trouble. Hissing, knocking, clicking, or banging noises are red flags. Hissing sounds may suggest a vacuum leak, while knocking sounds might indicate a piston problem. Abnormal engine noises should always be investigated ASAP. Check Engine Light An illuminated check engine light doesn’t automatically mean your engine is about to fully fail. But you should promptly visit the shop for diagnostics so the issue can be identified and addressed before it gets worse. Common reasons the check engine light comes on include problems with oxygen sensors, MAF sensors, and catalytic converters. Discolored/Excessive Exhaust Smoke Excessive smoke emitting from your vehicle's exhaust is a sign that something is amiss within the engine. Different colored smoke can indicate various problems. Blue smoke might suggest burning oil, white smoke could be a sign of a coolant leak, and black smoke may indicate an overly rich fuel mixture. In any case, it's essential to address the issue promptly to prevent bigger trouble. Fluid Leaks Leaking fluids under your parked car could be a sign of an engine problem. Engine oil or coolant leaks can compromise the overall performance and longevity of your vehicle. Regularly check for puddles beneath your car and address any leaks promptly to help prevent damage. Overheating Overheating can be attributed to various issues, such as a faulty thermostat or a leaking radiator. Ignoring overheating can lead to severe engine damage, so it's crucial to address the problem as soon as possible. Engine Repair in Roswell, GA When you need auto repair in Roswell, GA and the surrounding area, contact Roswell Transmission and Car Care at (770) 635-5971. Feel free to give us a call today to schedule an appointment!
By Roswell Transmission and Car Care 29 Jan, 2024
Your alternator is responsible for generating electrical power to charge the battery and power various electrical components. When the alternator malfunctions, it can lead to a host of issues, and can potentially leave you stranded. This makes it important to get to the shop when you first notice a sign of alternator trouble. At Roswell Transmission and Car Care, our local mechanics provide expert alternator replacement and auto electric repair in the greater Roswell, GA area. Here are five signs of an alternator problem. Dimming or Flickering Lights If you notice your headlights becoming increasingly dim while driving, or if the interior lights flicker, it could be an indication that the alternator is not producing enough power to keep the electrical system running smoothly. Ignoring this symptom may lead to a drained battery and eventual stalling of your vehicle. Warning Light on the Dashboard If your alternator is failing, you may see a warning light on the dashboard, such as the battery icon or the "ALT" (alternator) indicator. These lights are designed to alert you to potential issues with the charging system and should not be ignored. Strange Noises Unusual noises coming from the engine compartment may indicate alternator problems. A worn-out or damaged alternator often produces a whining or grinding noise. If you hear such sounds, it's important to have your vehicle inspected by the mechanic to diagnose and address the issue promptly. Difficulty Starting the Vehicle An alternator generates the power needed to start your vehicle. If you experience difficulty starting your car, it may be a sign that the alternator is not charging the battery properly. While a dead battery is a common culprit, a malfunctioning alternator may be the underlying cause. Electrical Accessory Issues The alternator powers various electrical components in your vehicle, including the radio, power windows, and air conditioning. If you notice these components behaving erratically or failing altogether, it could indicate an alternator problem. Alternator Replacement & Auto Electric Repair in Roswell, GA When you need auto repair in Roswell, GA and the surrounding area, contact Roswell Transmission and Car Care at (770) 635-5971. Feel free to give us a call today to make an appointment!
By Roswell Transmission & Car Care 22 Dec, 2023
Ignoring signs of brake trouble can lead to serious consequences, compromising not only your safety but also the safety of others on the road. So when you first suspect an issue with your brakes, it’ll be best to visit the shop for an inspection. At Roswell Transmission and Car Care, our local mechanics provide expert brake repair in the greater Roswell, GA area. Here are four warning signs of a brake problem. Squeaking or Squealing Noises One of the most common signs of brake trouble is unusual noises when you apply the brakes. If you hear a high-pitched squeaking or squealing sound, it could indicate worn-out brake pads. Brake pads come equipped with a wear indicator that produces these sounds when the pads are nearing the end of their life. Ignoring this warning may lead to decreased braking efficiency and potential damage to other brake components. Grinding Sounds A grinding noise when you apply the brakes is a more severe sign of trouble. This could mean that the brake pads have completely worn down, and the metal parts of the brakes are now rubbing against each other. It's crucial to address this issue promptly to avoid damage to rotors. Vibrations When you apply the brakes, if you feel vibrations or pulsations through the steering wheel or brake pedal, it may be a sign of warped brake rotors. If there’s a degraded area on the rotor, the pad may transfer to it unevenly, leading to vibrations. Dashboard Warning Light An illuminated ABS (anti-lock braking system) warning light is a sign of brake trouble that should be brought to the mechanic’s attention. This light can get triggered by issues such as faulty wheel speed sensors and low brake fluid. If your car has a brake fluid leak, then you have a serious safety hazard and shouldn’t drive it. Rather, it’ll be safest to get towed to the shop. Brake Repair in Roswell, GA When you need auto repair in Roswell, GA and the surrounding area, contact Roswell Transmission and Car Care at (770) 635-5971. Feel free to give us a call today to make an appointment!
By Roswell Transmission & Car Care 21 Nov, 2023
One crucial aspect of maintaining a healthy transmission is monitoring the condition of the transmission fluid. Transmission fluid serves multiple purposes, including lubricating moving parts, cooling the transmission, and enabling smooth gear shifts. Ignoring potential problems with transmission fluid can lead to costly repairs, so it’s always best to get to the shop if you suspect a fluid issue. At Roswell Transmission and Car Care, we provide expert transmission service in the greater Roswell, GA area, including transmission fluid flushes. Discolored Fluid One of the most noticeable signs of transmission fluid problems is a change in its color. Transmission fluid is typically bright red, and any deviation from this hue may indicate trouble. Dark brown or black fluid suggests that the fluid is in poor condition, which can lead to worsening transmission performance. It’s wise to check your transmission fluid monthly to make sure it looks healthy and is at a proper level. Leaking Fluid An accumulation of red fluid underneath your parked car is a potential sign of a transmission fluid leak. Leaks can occur from various points in the transmission system, including seals, gaskets, or the transmission pan. Ignoring a transmission fluid leak can lead to low fluid levels, which in turn can cause overheating and significant damage to the transmission. Slipping Gears If you experience a delay or a noticeable slip when shifting gears, it may be a sign of low or contaminated transmission fluid. Insufficient fluid levels can prevent the transmission from engaging gears properly. Unusual Noises Strange noises, such as whining, clunking, or grinding, can be indicative of transmission fluid issues. Low fluid levels or degraded fluid can result in increased friction between transmission components, leading to these abnormal sounds. Difficulty in Shifting Gears A well-functioning transmission should shift smoothly between gears. If you experience difficulty in shifting, such as resistance or a grinding sensation, it may be a sign of inadequate or contaminated transmission fluid. Ignoring this issue can lead to more severe transmission problems. Transmission Repair in Roswell, GA For transmission service in Roswell, GA and the surrounding area, contact Roswell Transmission and Car Care at (770) 635-5971. Feel free to give us a call today to make an appointment!
By Roswell Transmission & Car Care 27 Oct, 2023
Your car's suspension system plays a crucial role in ensuring a smooth and safe ride. It not only affects your comfort while driving but also impacts your vehicle's handling, stability, and overall safety. So if you notice a sign of suspension trouble, you’ll want to alert the mechanic ASAP. At Roswell Transmission and Car Care, we provide expert suspension repair in the greater Roswell, GA area. Here are five warning signs of a suspension problem. Excessive Bouncing A properly functioning suspension should provide a smooth and comfortable ride, absorbing little bumps. If you notice that your car bounces excessively over minor bumps in the road, it's a sign of suspension trouble. This bouncing can not only make your ride uncomfortable but also affect your control over the vehicle, potentially leading to safety issues. Nose Diving During Braking When you hit the brakes, your car should maintain a level and stable position. However, if you notice your car's front end dipping or "nose diving" when you brake, it's a sign of suspension problems. This can reduce your ability to stop quickly and safely, increasing the risk of an accident. Slouching If your car has a damaged spring, then it may sit lower in the affected corner. Steering Problems Suspension issues can also affect your steering. If you experience difficulty steering, your vehicle doesn't respond as quickly as it should, or the steering wheel feels loose or unstable, it's essential to get your suspension system inspected. Proper steering is crucial for safe and precise control of your vehicle. Uneven Tire Wear If your suspension is not functioning correctly, it can lead to imbalanced weight distribution on your tires. This may lead to your tires developing uneven wear/bald spots. Suspension Repair in Roswell, GA When you need auto repair in Roswell, GA and the surrounding area, contact Roswell Transmission and Car Care at (770) 635-5971. At our local auto shop, we can expertly handle your car’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call today to make an appointment!
By Roswell Transmission & Car Care 20 Sep, 2023
Your brakes play a critical role in keeping you safe as you go about your daily commute. This makes it very important to keep your braking system in excellent condition. If you do encounter any symptoms of brake trouble , you’ll want to promptly visit the mechanic for an inspection. At Roswell Transmission and Car Care, we provide expert brake service in the greater Roswell, GA area. Tips for Healthy Brakes One simple way to prevent unnecessary brake degradation is to always drive within the posted speed limit. If you drive over the speed limit, then you’ll have less reaction time if a hazard suddenly emerges. Then you’re likely to slam on your brakes. Not only is this a dangerous situation, it also causes braking system parts to wear down faster. It’s also best if you're careful about resting your foot on the brake pedal when you’re not actively trying to slow down. When resting your foot on the pedal, it’s easy for the brakes to become slightly engaged, which can then cause wear and tear. As you do need to decelerate, it’s better for your brakes if you begin the process of slowing down by just easing up on the gas instead of hitting the brake pedal. Then, as you need to slow down at a faster rate, you’ll want to be as gentle with hitting your brakes as safely possible. Of course, it’ll be easier to brake gently if you keep a safe following distance. You’ll also want to keep up with brake maintenance. Brake pads often need to be replaced by 30,000 miles. But how soon you’ll need new pads will largely depend on how hard you are on your brakes during your daily driving routine. And brake fluid should be changed every four or five years. For safe brake function, it’s very important that you’re driving with the right amount of clean fluid. Brake Service in Roswell, GA When you need brake service in Roswell, GA and the surrounding area, contact Roswell Transmission and Car Care at (770) 635-5971. At our local auto shop, we can expertly handle your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call today to schedule an appointment!
By Roswell Transmission & Car Care 23 Aug, 2023
At Roswell Transmission and Car Care, we’re proud members of the local small business community. It’s our mission to exceed our customers’ expectations by providing accurate diagnostics, friendly service, fair pricing, and top-quality repairs and maintenance. And we appreciate it when our customers offer feedback about the work that we did for them. Here’s a look at some of our recent customer reviews. “After 14 years, the transmission on my beloved Mini Cooper failed, and I did not want to part with it. I'm writing this review because it's been over three months since I had a new transmission rebuilt by Gary and his team and I'm pleased with the quality of the work and how my car drives. As a woman, I'm always concerned about being taken advantage of by car mechanics, but from the beginning, Gary made me feel safe and protected. If you are looking for a business that is trustworthy, professional, knowledgeable, and experienced then I highly recommend Roswell Transmission without reservation. Thank you for allowing me to enjoy my car no doubt for many years to come!” —Maria S. “I was impressed with the exceptional service I received from Gary. I needed my transmission reprogrammed, and with all the shops I called in the area no one was willing to help me but this one did. Thank you so much for helping me out, and I will definitely be coming back.” —Joseph L. “Roswell Transmission was the 4th mechanic to look at my 2004 Acura MDX. The first three mechanics (including two from the Acura dealership) all agreed that the transmission needed to be replaced. Roswell Transmission looked at it and said the transmission was fine but that two engine mounts needed to be replaced. They were right, after the engine mounts were changed it was back to running great. I appreciate Gary and Roswell Transmission taking the time to figure out what the actual issue was and getting it fixed.” —Michael G. “Great knowledgeable technicians. Gary is a wonderful person to work with.” —Doug Auto Repair in Roswell, GA When you need auto repair in Roswell, GA and the surrounding area, contact Roswell Transmission and Car Care at (770) 635-5971. At our local auto shop, we can expertly handle your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call today to make an appointment!
By Roswell Transmission 18 Jul, 2023
In late-model vehicles, automatic transmissions are typically controlled by computers. Although computerized technology has improved the efficiency of automatic transmissions, there are still a lot of common problems that affect today’s automatic transmissions. At the first indication of transmission trouble, you’ll want to bring your vehicle to the shop. At Roswell Transmission and Car Care, we provide expert automatic transmission repair in the greater Roswell, GA area. Here’s a look at five common signs of an automatic transmission problem. Shifts Erratically Your automatic transmission might start shifting unpredictably if there is a problem with the computer. This could create a serious safety hazard. If your car is doing this, you’ll want to cease driving it and have a mechanic take a look. Delays in Shifting An issue related to automatic transmission fluid could cause your vehicle to just rev up when you try to shift between park and drive. Transmission fluid provides fluid pressure, lubrication, rust prevention, and cooling. So it’s very important that you’re driving with clean transmission fluid that is kept at the right level. Leaking Transmission Fluid One sign of a transmission fluid leak is that there’s reddish-colored fluid on the ground where your car has been parked. Another potential sign of a leak is that you check your transmission fluid level and the transmission dipstick indicates that the fluid has gotten worryingly low. Bump in the Downshift If there’s a noticeable bump when your automatic transmission shifts down, then you may have a fluid-related issue and you should bring your car to the shop for service. Whining Sound An issue with the torque converter can cause a whining noise during shifting. This symptom may precede bigger problems, so it should be addressed ASAP. Transmission Repair in Roswell, GA If you need transmission service in Roswell, GA and the surrounding area, contact Roswell Transmission and Car Care at (770) 635-5971. Our local transmission shop can expertly take care of any of your vehicle’s transmission needs. Feel free to give us a call today to make an appointment!
By Roswell Transmission and Car Care 20 Jun, 2023
Summer is here and it’s hard to resist the temptation of the open road. Before you pack your bags and hit the highway, you’ll want to be sure that your vehicle is ready to perform reliably and safely during your expedition. At Roswell Transmission and Car Care, our local mechanics can complete auto maintenance in the greater Roswell, GA area to prepare your vehicle for the long road ahead. Important Types of Road Trip Auto Maintenance For your car to be able to handle the heat, there are certain kinds of maintenance that should be done. When you visit us for AC service, we’ll look over your entire AC system and ensure that all components are working efficiently. For you and your passengers to remain in good spirits when the heat becomes blazing, it’s crucial that your AC is working dependably. Another way to help your car keep the heat in check is with cooling system service, during which we’ll make sure that all aspects of your car’s cooling system are working efficiently. We’ll also exchange coolant if needed. Generally, coolant should be exchanged every 30,000 miles, though it’s worth consulting your owner’s manual to see your vehicle’s exact mileage guidelines for this task. With the right amount of clean coolant, there’s much less risk of your engine suffering major damage due to overheating. Prior to your departure, you’ll also want to make sure your car can be trusted to keep you safe. When we conduct brake service, we’ll inspect your whole braking system, lubricate brake parts as needed, and replace worn-out pads. For optimal safety on the open road, it’s critical that your brakes are functioning flawlessly. Another important safety measure is to check your tire tread and pressure. With proper tire pressure, there’s less risk of a blowout putting you at risk of a serious accident. A quick and affordable way to boost safety is by replacing old wiper blades. With new wiper blades, it’ll be easier to see the road ahead if a summertime thunderstorm starts pouring rain over the highway. Also, it’s smart to get your battery checked. This way, you’ll know if your battery is in bad shape and liable to die and leave you stranded in some remote location. Auto Maintenance in Roswell, GA If you need auto maintenance in Roswell, GA before a road trip, contact Roswell Transmission and Car Care at (770) 635-5971. Feel free to give us a call today to schedule an appointment!
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