If your transmission is slipping and your dashboard lights are flashing, you may be dealing with a serious mechanical issue. These warning signs indicate potential problems that, if ignored, can lead to costly repairs or even complete transmission failure. In this guide, we’ll cover the steps you should take to address the issue, the common causes of transmission slipping, and how Luis Transmissions can help you get back on the road.
What is Transmission Slipping?
Transmission slipping occurs when your vehicle struggles to stay in the correct gear, causing symptoms such as:
- Delayed or rough shifting
- High engine RPMs without acceleration
- A burning smell from overheating transmission fluid
- Unexpected gear changes
- Unusual noises like whining or grinding
Recognizing these symptoms early can prevent further damage to your vehicle.
What to Do if Your Transmission is Slipping
1. Pull Over Safely
If you notice signs of transmission slipping, the first step is to safely pull over. Continuing to drive can make the problem worse and leave you stranded.
2. Check for Warning Signs
Once you’ve stopped, inspect your vehicle for:
- Transmission fluid leaks – Look for red or brown fluid under your car.
- Burning odor – This could indicate overheated transmission fluid.
- Dashboard warning lights – If your transmission or check engine light is flashing, your car’s system has detected a critical issue.
3. Consult Your Owner’s Manual
Your vehicle’s manual can provide important details about dashboard warning lights and any built-in diagnostic features that might help pinpoint the problem.
4. Avoid Driving Further
Driving with a slipping transmission can cause severe damage. If your car is struggling to shift gears or isn’t accelerating properly, it’s best to avoid driving further and seek professional help.
5. Get a Professional Diagnosis
At Luis Transmissions, we specialize in diagnosing and repairing slipping transmissions. Our experts will:
- Perform a full inspection
- Check transmission fluid levels
- Scan for diagnostic error codes
- Identify worn-out or damaged components
6. Consider a Tow to a Repair Shop
If your transmission is severely slipping, it may be unsafe to drive. Getting your vehicle towed to a professional repair shop like Luis Transmissions can prevent further damage and save you money on repairs.
Common Causes of Transmission Slipping
Understanding what causes transmission slipping can help you take preventive action. Some common reasons include:
1. Low or Contaminated Transmission Fluid
Transmission fluid is essential for smooth gear shifts. Low levels or dirty fluid can cause overheating and gear slippage.
2. Worn-Out Clutch (For Manual Transmissions)
A failing clutch can cause a manual transmission to slip, making it difficult to stay in gear.
3. Faulty Torque Converter
In automatic transmissions, a bad torque converter can prevent power from being properly transferred to the wheels.
4. Failing Solenoids
Transmission solenoids control the flow of fluid. A malfunctioning solenoid can disrupt the shifting process.
5. Worn or Damaged Gears
Over time, gears can wear out, leading to rough shifting and slippage.
Why Choose Luis Transmissions?
At Luis Transmissions, we provide expert diagnostics and high-quality repairs for all transmission issues. Here’s why customers trust us:
- Advanced diagnostics – We use state-of-the-art tools to pinpoint transmission problems.
- Experienced technicians – Our skilled mechanics handle all types of transmission repairs.
- Affordable solutions – We offer cost-effective repair options to fit your budget.