Despite the crucial importance of car transmissions, many drivers aren’t aware of the early warning signs of gearbox trouble. If you fail to notice a developing problem in your transmission, it can rapidly grow into a very costly repair job. With this in mind, keep an eye out for the following indications of transmission problems and visit your local Acura dealer forĀ transmission repairĀ as soon as you need it.
5 Signs Your Acura Needs a Transmission Repair
You’re Hearing Odd Noises
When transmissions start to malfunction, they usually make strange noises. Modern automatic transmissions may make a whining or humming sound when a bearing or shaft is worn out or damaged. Low transmission fluid may also cause a humming sound.
Growling or grinding sounds are common with more serious transmission faults. Excessively low fluid would cause excess friction between the gears, which might start to growl when you shift. Growling can also result from a dragging clutch, faulty shift forks, worn synchronizer blocking rings, or a variety of other issues. You’re likely to need a technician to diagnose and repair the source of the sound.
You Spot Leaking Transmission Fluid
Transmission fluid is as vital to the transmission as motor oil is to the engine. If your car’s transmission fluid ever leaks, friction and heat will rapidly rise while hydraulic pressure drops, causing all kinds of gearbox problems.
Transmission fluid is usually light red or pink when new, fading to dark red or brown when old. If you ever notice a puddle of reddish liquid under your car, have a technician take a look at once. If you suspect a leak but aren’t sure, place a piece of cardboard or newspaper under your car when you park. When you return, you’ll see whether it has a red stain or not.
Your Shifts Are Delayed
Delayed engagement is another possible symptom of transmission trouble. If your car seems to take a few seconds to respond to your gear shifts, you may have failing clutch bands, solenoid problems, worn-out gears, or low transmission fluid.
Your Gears Are Slipping
Any problem with the gears can eventually lead to them slipping or changing on their own. If you have slipping gears, this would often mean your gears suddenly pop into neutral at inopportune moments. Needless to say, this is dangerous while you’re on the road.
Your Acura Dealer Detects a Fault
As important as transmissions are, all drivers should have their vehicles’ transmissions routinely inspected by a qualified technician. This allows the technician to keep the transmission fluid topped up and fresh. It also allows them to catch potential problems early on and nip them in the bud before they worsen.
Have your transmission examined and repaired today at Open Road Acura of Wayne. We’re a long-standing local dealership delivering top-notch new and used Acura vehicles and excellent customer service as well.

