Transmission Issues To Check on a Used Car
If you are buying a used car, there are several inspections that should be done. Some of these need to be done by a professional. However, there are some inspections that can be done by you. A few of the self-inspections can let you know if you will need something like transmission repair. If transmission issues are your main concern, here are a few things to look for during a self-inspection to determine if you need auto transmission repair.
Slow Shifting
One of the easiest tests you can do for transmission inspection is to shift gears. You are checking for a delay in the gear change or stumbling when the gears shift. This stumbling will feel as though the entire vehicle is jerking. If this is happening at almost every stop you make, then you may need transmission repair or a transmission fluid change. There could be debris clogging the gears causing the delay.
Leaking Fluid
Leaking fluid from your car is never a good sign. This could mean that you have leaking oil. Leaking transmission fluid, or leaking brake fluid. If this is the case, you will need to have your transmission repair tech locate the leak, drain the transmission, secure and patch the leak, and then refill the transmission with the missing fluid. Before you get into the car, check underneath for any kind of leaking or pooling of fluids.
Burning or Smoke
You may look under the car and not see a leak. You may not have terrible shifting delays that would notify you of an issue. Or you may notice the smell of smoke. This will often smell like a mechanical fire or like oil burning. If this is the case and you can't locate the oil leak, you likely have an internal or small leak. This can cause the transmission fluid to burn and cause multiple issues with the transmission and overheating. If you notice a burning smell, take your car in for inspection as soon as possible to avoid potential fire and other issues.
These issues are just a few signs that the used car may need transmission repair. Ideally, you should take your vehicle to a certified mechanic and transmission servicer. They can perform a full diagnostic on the car and determine what transmission services are necessary and what repairs may need to be done as soon as possible. They can also give you a cost estimate on these repairs.
