It Might Not Be the Fluid: Four More Causes of Transmission Slipping

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Most causes of transmission slipping are related to the transmission fluid. For example, transmission slipping can be caused by low fluid levels, burnt fluid, or contaminated fluid. However, this doesn't mean that the fluid is the only suspect if your transmission is slipping. Here are four possible causes of the problem that aren't directly fluid related.

Damaged Transmission Bands

Transmission bands connect different parts of the transmission system; for example, they connect the different transmission gears together. Just like other parts of your car, they are subject to wear and tear and can even break. If this happens, the connections become loose, and the gears can slip out of their designated positions.

 Worn-Out Gears

The gears have to stay in contact to transfer power through the transmission. Contact means friction, which wears down the surfaces of the gears. Although manufacturers are aware of this and design gears with some tolerances, there comes a time when the wear is too much and exceeds the tolerances. If that happens, the gears' teeth won't fit together properly, and they will tend to slip out of their positions.

Solenoid Malfunction

Typically, modern automatic transmission systems change gears using pressurized hydraulic fluid. The flow of the fluid is managed by an electromechanical device known as the transmission solenoid. When the Engine Control Unit (ECU) signals a change of gear, the solenoid uses the information to open the valve that lets the fluid flow engage the desired gear. Mechanical or electrical damage to the solenoid can interfere with its operation, which will mess up the fluid flow and cause transmission slipping.

Damaged Clutch

The main function of the clutch is to transfer power from the engine to the gearbox. The clutch disconnects when a gear is being selected or engaged. Damage to any part of the clutch system, such as the release bearing or pressure plate, interferes with the release and engagement of gears when shifting. Transmission slipping is a common result of such a malfunction. The clutch system can be damaged due to overheating or too much friction. 

Therefore, don't rush to fill or change the transmission fluid if your transmission is slipping. It might be that the problem is not originating with the fluid but rather comes from issues with another part of the transmission system. Once you have confirmed that the fluid level is adequate, consult a mechanic such as Integrity Transmission & Auto Service Center to see if the slipping is due to any of the above four issues.

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13 July 2016

protect the transmission in your car from damage and wear

Have you ever had the transmission fluid in your car checked or changed? How many miles are on your car? Have you noticed sounds that occur only when the car is shifting from one gear to another? The transmission in a car is complicated and very expensive to replace. If you don't learn what needs to be done to protect that key element in your car's mechanical system, you could end up paying for a new transmission or costly repairs. Visit our site to find out what you need to do to protect the transmission in your car from damage and wear.