A car's transmission is a hard-working component, often absorbing the most abuse from poor driving habits and overall wear and tear. Additionally, it can be one of the most neglected parts of a vehicle unless something goes wrong with it. Learn to recognize the signs that you may need transmission service and keep your Lincoln running smoothly for as long as possible.
 

Slipping In and Out of Gear 

Your vehicle should be able to stay in the right gear regardless of driving conditions. However, if you notice that your car is slipping in and out of gear, particularly when climbing or descending mountainous terrain, you need to have your transmission inspected right away. Remember that transmissions require regular maintenance and fluid checks just as other car components do. Neglecting your transmission can lead to a non-functional vehicle or can cause other major problems to arise.

Rough Idling or Shifting

When you're stopped at a traffic light and your engine is idling, it should be quiet and smooth. However, if you have a transmission issue, your idle could be rough or even make a grinding sound. It might feel like a heartbeat that is skipping beats, but what it means is that your transmission is not operating appropriately, causing your engine to "miss." An odd vibration during driving or shifting is another condition that should be inspected right away.

Poor Shifting

Whether you have a manual or automatic transmission, it should shift smoothly and at the proper RPMs (in the case of an automatic). In the case that your car is shifting at RPMs that are significantly higher than usual, it could be a sign that your transmission is failing. If your manual transmission is shifting hard or you're having difficulty getting it into gear, your transmission needs to be inspected as soon as possible.

Poor Acceleration

Your vehicle should respond immediately when you step on the accelerator after having been stopped at a traffic light or stop sign. If your car hesitates or dies when you press on the gas pedal after stopping, your transmission is likely the problem. The lack of response is a key indication that something is wrong with your transmission's ability to shift into gear. This can happen with both manual and automatic transmissions.

Transmission Fluid On the Ground

A transmission leak is a common reason why transmissions need to be serviced, so if you see dark red, bright red, or brown spots on the ground under your car, you probably have a transmission fluid leak. If you don't get this leak fixed right away, it could cause the fluid to completely drain from your transmission, which would completely ruin it. A complete transmission replacement is much costlier than a fluid leak repair.

Dashboard Warning Light

Not all vehicles have a dashboard warning light for their transmission, but they all have one for the engine. If there is a problem with your transmission that is detected by your vehicle's computer system, either the transmission or engine light will illuminate. Do not take this lightly and bring your car in for service right away. Even if the light isn't for your transmission, you should still have it inspected at the same time as all other components.

Your transmission is a critical part of keeping your car running. Without a working transmission, your vehicle simply won't go. So, if you notice any of these signs, come by Pines Lincoln right away and we'll inspect your transmission along with all other vital vehicle components.