The transmission is the second most important system in a vehicle after your engine. It takes the energy produced by the engine and transfers it to the wheels through a series of gears to enable the wheels to move at the desired speed. Over time, transmission components will become worn or damaged, affecting transmission performance. As your Ford dealer, we’d like you to know some signs you need to visit us for a transmission service.
Signs You Need a Transmission Service at Your Ford Dealer
Dirty Transmission Filter
Transmission fluid is pumped through your transmission and provides the hydraulic power that allows the gears to shift smoothly. The fluid also surrounds the transmission components with a friction-resistant covering to reduce potential damage, and it lowers the heat inside the transmission. The fluid absorbs dirt, minute metal fragments, and other debris.
The transmission filter captures debris in the fluid and removes it from the system. As time passes, the filter will become partially blocked by debris, reducing the fluid’s speed. This can cause a range of problems, including slower gear shifting and noises from the transmission. We’ll check your filter and replace it if necessary to fix this issue.
Transmission Fluid Leak
As we’ve seen, transmission fluid performs many essential functions in the transmission. As time passes, transmission seals can dry up and crack, and the fluid can leak out. Fortunately, a transmission fluid leak is easy to identify as it will form a puddle of red, sweet-smelling liquid under your car. As fluid leaks out, your transmission will become less responsive and will make strange noises.
We don’t advise driving if you have a transmission leak, as a lack of fluid can cause serious damage to the transmission. Contact our service department right away, and our technicians will examine your transmission. One of the most common leak sites is the transmission pan gasket. We’ll fix the leak, then we’ll refill the fluid, and your transmission will work efficiently again.
Delayed Shifting
Your gears are designed to shift smoothly and easily when you or the computer shift them. Delayed shifting is very noticeable, as there’s a gap between the original gear disengaging and the new gear engaging. You may hear increased sounds from the engine, and your RPM will read higher than it should in the new gear.
The delay will increase with time, and it can lead to damaged gears or other transmission problems. Fortunately, the most common cause of this situation is a lack of transmission fluid. We’ll check your transmission for any leaks, then refill the transmission fluid.
Transmission problems worsen over time and will also become more expensive to repair as more damage will be caused. Contact us today at Monaco Ford of Niantic in Niantic, CT.
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