Transmission Service & Repair
An automatic transmission consists primarily of a torque converter, planetary gearsets, hydraulic system (valve body and pump), and clutch packs/bands. These components work together to manage engine power and shift gears automatically using pressurized fluid, allowing the vehicle to move without manual intervention
Key Components Breakdown
- Torque Converter: Located between the engine and transmission, this fluid coupling acts as a clutch, allowing the engine to idle while the car is stopped without stalling.
- Planetary Gearsets: The core unit that creates different gear ratios (forward and reverse) for speed and torque. They consist of a sun gear, planet gears, and a ring gear.
- Hydraulic System/Valve Body: The “brain” of the transmission, using pressurized automatic transmission fluid (ATF) to control when gears shift.
- Clutch Packs and Bands: These friction elements are activated by hydraulic pressure to lock or unlock parts of the planetary gearsets, changing the gear ratios.
- Oil Pump: Moves transmission fluid around to provide lubrication, cooling, and operating pressure.
- Governor/Modulator or Computer (TCM): Monitors speed and throttle position to determine the correct time to shift
Modern automatic transmissions often feature sophisticated computer controls to manage these mechanical parts for smoother, more efficient shifting
Diagnosing your Vehicle Transmission issues:
Common signs of automatic transmission problems include slipping gears (RPMs rise without speed), delayed or rough shifting, burning smells, fluid leaks, and warning lights. Other indicators are sluggish acceleration, strange noises (whining, clunking) in neutral, and an unresponsive transmission, often caused by low fluid, worn clutches, or broken solenoids
Top signs of Automatic Transmission Failure
- Slipping Gears/High RPMs: The engine revs high, but the car struggles to accelerate, or the transmission feels like it changes gears on its own.
- Delayed/Rough Shifts: A noticeable hesitation or clunking feeling when moving from park to drive or reverse.
- Burning Smell: A sweet or burnt smell indicates the transmission fluid is overheating, often caused by low fluid levels.
- Fluid Leaks: Reddish, sweet-smelling fluid under the vehicle is a clear indicator of a leak, which can quickly ruin a transmission.
- Check Engine/Transmission Light: Modern sensors can detect issues like overheating or pressure problems, triggering the dashboard light.
- Unusual Noises: Humming, buzzing, or whining sounds, particularly in neutral, indicate a potential issue with the fluid pump or internal components.
- Unresponsive Gear Engagement: The car refuses to move or takes several seconds to engage when shifted into Drive or Reverse
Common causes & Solutions
- Low/Contaminated Fluid: Often, issues are caused by low fluid levels. Regularly checking and changing the fluid and filter is crucial.
- Faulty Solenoids: These electrical components control the flow of fluid. If they fail, they cause erratic shifting.
- Worn Clutches/Bands: Internal components that wear out over time, leading to slipping and loss of power.
- Damaged Torque Converter: A failing converter can cause noise and slipping
If you experience these symptoms, it is recommended to have a professional mechanic check your vehicle immediately, as continuing to drive can lead to complete, expensive transmission failure
While we’re there, let us perform a Courtesy Check, which includes a visual check of the following items:
- Engine air filter
- Brake fluid
- Power steering fluid
- Automatic transmission fluid
- Coolant/antifreeze
Need an oil change? We can service your vehicle today and alert you when your vehicle becomes due for maintenance services.
Trust Our Service
For over 15+ years, Gilmore’s has been helping drivers all across the Treasure Coast to maintain their vehicles. With Mobile mechanics who come to you to service many of your Auto repair and maintenance needs.
From oil changes, filter replacements, and fluid flushes to brakes and brake repair, shocks and struts, muffler repair, tires, and wheel alignment, we’ve got you covered. Use the quick link below to book an appointment today!