Apr 25, 2025

The transmission is sealed and well-protected, but it still requires regular maintenance. A well-maintained transmission ensures peak performance, while an irregularly serviced one will develop problems as components get damaged or wear out and need replacement. As your Acura dealership, we want you to know a few signs you may need to visit our service department for a transmission service.

3 Signs You Need To Visit Your Acura Dealership for a Transmission Service

Gear Slipping

As you accelerate or decelerate, the gears shift smoothly to their new positions according to the instructions of your transmission control unit. Once in gear, the transmission only shifts again when you or the control unit changes gears. Gear slipping occurs when the gears change suddenly and unexpectedly on their own accord.

Sudden, unexpected gear changes are dangerous as the gears usually return to their last position. As a result, your vehicle could slow or stop without warning, potentially resulting in an accident. Gear slipping will damage gear teeth and other transmission components, and it’s often caused by low transmission fluid. Our technicians will identify the problem and fix it.

Fluid Leak

The transmission can’t work without enough transmission fluid. This fluid provides the hydraulic power essential for shifting the gears and protects transmission components from excessive wear and tear. The fluid covers these components with a friction-resistant coating so they move easily rather than grinding against each other and wearing down.

The transmission case is protected against most damage, but not the ravages of time. Transmission seals, particularly the transmission pan gasket, can weaken or crack due to age, and fluid will leak. As fluid is lost, gear changes will become slower and noisy, and transmission components will suffer significant damage. We’ll find and repair any leaks and refill the fluid.

Burning Fluid

Transmission fluid is usually changed every 30,000 to 60,000 miles, depending on your Acura model. As the fluid ages, it becomes slower due to the accumulation of dirt, metallic fragments, and other minute debris. Slower fluid is less efficient at protecting the transmission components, and they will also start to wear out.

Older fluid will lose its heat resistance and can overheat and burn. Burning transmission fluid produces a harsh smell, like burning rubber. If this happens, contact us ASAP, and don’t drive your vehicle, as it will suffer further damage. Our technicians will flush the transmission to remove the old fluid, then check the components and replace any damaged ones. Once the transmission is in good shape, we’ll refill the fluid.

Transmission problems are quick and inexpensive to repair if identified and fixed when they appear. If you suspect something is wrong with your transmission or need to book its scheduled maintenance, contact us today at Open Road Acura of Wayne in Wayne, NJ.