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5 Truck Transmission Problems That You Shouldn't Ignore

Transmission issues don't go away on their own, and if you neglect them for too long, your truck can need a complete transmission replacement, which is far more costly than basic transmission repairs. So, how can you ensure that your gearbox is in excellent working order? Recognize these 5 frequent transmission issues and take the necessary actions to correct them!
Semi truck receiving transmission repair services

Your truck's gearbox is one of the most important and most expensive components. The gearbox is responsible for allowing the engine to drive your wheels; it's what keeps you on the road! As a result, it may be somewhat frightening when you start to have transmission issues. Because repairing a gearbox may be costly, many individuals keep driving and disregard degradation indicators.

This, however, is a colossal blunder. Transmission issues don't go away on their own, and if you neglect them for too long, your truck can need a complete transmission replacement, which is far more costly than basic transmission repairs. So, how can you ensure that your gearbox is in excellent working order? Recognize these 5 frequent transmission issues and take the necessary actions to correct them!

You experience slipping in the transmission. 

Transmission sliding is exceptionally prevalent, and it may be caused by several problems with the transmission, such as low fluid levels, fluid leaks, worn-out gears, or solenoid faults.

Fortunately, gearbox sliding is relatively straightforward to detect, particularly in an automatic truck. Even if you're driving at the same pace, your engine's pitch will change abruptly, moving from a low rumble to a high-pitched whine, and your RPMs will rise rapidly. This occurs when your transmission slides and downshifts quickly.

On the other hand, you could notice that your truck is slow and underpowered, which can happen when the gearbox upshifts at a low speed. You'll see sluggish acceleration and lower-pitched engine noise than usual. Transmission sliding is risky because it may quickly result in accidents or additional transmission damage. If you're having trouble with your truck, take it to a technician straight soon.

Unpredictable Changes in transmission 

When your truck switches into another gear, it should be pretty smooth and effortless - no "clunking" or "thudding" sounds should be heard.

They should be taken seriously if you begin to hear these sounds while changing gears. Low transmission fluid and worn-out gears may cause clunking, as can digital sensors and solenoids that give incorrect information to your truck's gearbox.

It's typically hard to figure out what's causing your truck to shift jerkily until you take it in for servicing, so have your truck serviced as soon as you detect these problems.

You experience a delay in gear shifting. 

Has it ever "hesitated" or "delayed" when you try to move your truck into gear? Perhaps you're leaving a parking lot, and the gearbox takes a few seconds to transition from "reverse" to "drive." The gearbox isn't engaged even if you're pushing the gas pedal, which means power isn't traveling to the wheels for many seconds.

This is almost often an indicator of a clutch problem. The clutch is responsible for gear changing in both manual and automated trucks. A defective clutch may cause poor transmission performance and, if left unattended, damage to your gearbox or truck's flywheel, all of which are costly to fix. If you notice a significant delay in changing gears, get your truck evaluated immediately away. 

You might even notice that the transmission will not get into gear at all in certain instances. This is a significant concern to be mindful of. Check the transmission fluid level if the truck won't shift after engaging the clutch and moving the stick. Also, make sure you're using the correct fluid kind and thickness. The truck's computer system might be the root of the issue. 

If you've previously checked the fluid, try disconnecting the battery for thirty minutes to reset the truck's computer. The system should reset itself when you reconnect the battery. Make sure you have plenty of time since the procedure may take up to 30 minutes to reset. If none of these methods work, it's time to take it to Atlas.

You experience fluid leaks. 

Fluid leaks are frequently associated with difficulties like transmission slippage and poor overall transmission performance and indicate transmission deterioration. Check beneath your truck to determine if there is any fluid accumulation. If the fluid is brilliant red, transparent, and somewhat sweet-smelling, it's transmission fluid, and you've sprung a leak.

Fluid leaks usually are not a significant concern if found early enough; they can generally be simply fixed by a professional, and your truck should be fine to go after you top up your transmission fluid levels. However, failing to address these fluid leaks may result in significant transmission damage, so get your truck repaired as soon as you discover any fluids seeping from the chassis.

The "Check Engine" Light Has Been Turned On

Contrary to popular belief, the "check engine" light isn't designed to terrify you into seeing a technician. This light might come on for various causes, including broken spark plugs, worn-out air filters, and everything in between.

If your check engine light is on and you're suffering any of the above indications or symptoms of transmission trouble, don't dismiss it. Take your truck to a certified repair shop right away and have the error code diagnosed to find out what's wrong. If you don't want to go to the auto shop, you may purchase a code reader or scan tool to diagnose the issue yourself. However, unless you're a mechanic, you'll almost certainly want expert assistance to repair your truck. Therefore we suggest visiting your favorite local repair shop.

Final words 

Don't overlook your truck's gearbox troubles; if you do, you might be looking at a hefty repair charge. Bring your truck to a professional truck repair business the next time you suspect your gearbox is acting up. Some expert technicians will analyze your truck and offer you all of the information you need to get it fixed and back on the road as quickly as possible. You need to locate the best truck repair shop in your neighborhood and visit there to get all truck problems addressed. 

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Atlas Truck Repair proudly provides Austin, Texas with premier truck & auto repair and maintenance services from expert diesel mechanics from our shop in Del Valle. Get in touch with us today to schedule service!

Shop location:
3039 East HWY 71
Del Valle, Texas 78617