How Do I Know If I Need Transmission Fluid?
How do you know if you need more transmission fluid or need to replace it? The experts here at Nissan 24 have compiled the information below to understand better when it's time to have your fluid examined. If you're a do-it-yourself kind of person, you’ll find out how to top it off yourself.
If you're in the Brockton, Randolph, and Stoughton, Massachusetts, area, we invite you to take a moment to understand this important topic. Here are the symptoms you can expect when you're low on transmission fluid.
Grinding Noises
If you're hearing grinding noises coming from the transmission, it could be because of low fluid levels. The friction on the bands and clutches inside your transmission will exhibit excessive wear. This wear could mean that some damage may have already taken place, so be sure to get your car to our mechanics for transmission repair.
Shaking When Shifting
Shaking while changing gears clearly indicates that your fluid either needs to be changed or is running low.
Delays Between Gears
When your transmission fluid is running low, you can experience a delay or hesitation when shifting to drive or reverse. It’s because the fluid pressure simply isn't strong enough, and the gears will eventually change. It may just take more time than it typically does.
Transmission Slipping
After the shift change, the transmission slips back out of the gear, which can be disconcerting and inhibit your performance.
No Shifting at All
If your fluid completely runs out, your transmission will eventually stop working at all.
Transmission Overheating
Another sign that your transmission is completely out of fluid will result in the car overheating. Since this can cause severe damage, it's best to pull over and shut the car off to give the transmission some time to cool down before you make your way to the nearest garage or call for a tow truck.
The Check Engine Light
The check engine light could light up if your transmission fluid gets low enough. It's important to have this checked out to make sure it doesn't result in any serious damage.
It Smells Like Something Is Burning
A distinct burning smell is another sign that your engine could be running low on fluid. Whenever you detect a smell that resembles something burning, see a professional automotive technician right away.
Transmission Fluid Leak
A leak is a sure sign that you're probably running low on fluid. If there's a leak, damp spots will appear on the pavement below your car near where your transmission is located. If you find damp spots and suspect that it's your transmission fluid, get a closer look.
Healthy transmission fluid can vary from a clear red hue to light brown. If it's unhealthy, it can be darker brown or even black. As far consistency goes, transmission fluid is pretty thin compared to other automotive fluids.
Find Out If You Need Transmission Fluid
If you call Brockton, Randolph, or Stoughton, MA, home and you're currently experiencing one or more of these low transmission fluid symptoms, contact Nissan 24 today to schedule your service appointment.
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