Today: Closed
May 27, 2021

Your transmission is one of the most important parts of your Kia. If you repair transmission issues at an early stage, you’ll be less likely to experience more serious and expensive car issues in the future. Read on to learn common warning signs that may indicate that your car has developed transmission problems.

6 Signs Your Car May Be Having Transmission Problems

1. You Notice a Burning Smell

If you notice a burning smell while you are driving your vehicle, you should never ignore this problem. This unpleasant odor may be a sign that the fluid in your transmission has started to burn.

2. You Hear Odd Noises

If your transmission is damaged, you might hear buzzing or humming sounds while you are driving. This type of car problem can also cause your car to make clunking, bumping, or whining noises.

For example, you might notice a bumping noise after you put your vehicle in neutral. This sound may be a warning sign that the bearings or other aspects of your transmission are becoming too worn. Dirty or insufficient transmission fluid can also cause your car to make this noise. If you notice any unusual sounds, you should visit a service center that can diagnose the cause of this issue.

3. You Are Struggling To Change Gears

If you are having difficulty changing gears, your transmission may be malfunctioning. For example, you might struggle to move your car out of park. Having inadequate amounts of transmission fluid can cause you to experience this issue. Alternatively, you may have this problem if your transmission fluid becomes dirty.

4. Your Check Engine Light Has Turned On

Your check engine light will come on when sensors in your car identify jerks, vibrations, or other changes that are connected to maintenance issues. Although you might be tempted to ignore this directive, this light may indicate that you have a malfunctioning transmission or other problem. If you take your car to a reliable service center, you will lower your risk of experiencing a significant transmission issue while you are driving.

5. Your Car Is Leaking Fluid

If your transmission develops a leak, you might notice a pool of fluid under your car. This fluid may be red and smell sweet. If your fluid needs to be replaced, this liquid may be brown and have a burnt odor. This type of leak is likely to appear under the middle or front areas of your vehicle.

6. You Are Slipping Gears

If your transmission malfunctions, you might slip into a new gear without an obvious reason. Since this problem will decrease your ability to control your car, you should address this issue immediately.

If you smell a burning odor when you drive, have leaking fluid, or are experiencing other car issues, you should not ignore these warning signs. We can repair your broken transmission and lower your risk of developing car problems in the future. To schedule an appointment with our service center, contact us at Crain Kia today.