Most drivers know one thing about transmission repair: that it’s one of the most costly repairs out there. And while that’s an accurate assumption, it doesn’t always have to be this way. By watching for early symptoms of transmission problems in your Ford, you may be able to avoid extensive damage and keep the costs to a minimum. Here are four signs that it’s time to head to your Ford dealer for transmission service.
1. Slipping Gears
A slipping transmission is a typical early warning sign of a failing transmission. You can recognize slipping gears by a loud revving noise when shifting gears and high RPM without an accompanying boost in acceleration. When the transmission slips in and out of gear, it can also feel as if you’re driving over ice for a moment. You may also find your car suddenly slips into neutral by itself.
Slipping gears make for an uncomfortable and highly unsafe driving experience. It’s important to get your Ford checked out ASAP, especially since this problem can quickly lead to total transmission failure.
2. Trouble Shifting Gears
Rough or delayed gear shifting is a sure-fire sign of transmission trouble. With automatic transmissions, even a short delay in engaging indicates that there’s an underlying issue that’s likely to get worse with time. With stick shift vehicles, you may even find yourself physically unable to get the car into gear.
3. Leaking Fluid
Both stick shift and automatic transmissions require transmission fluid to run properly. If there’s not enough fluid in the system, the transmission will malfunction and potentially suffer serious damage as a result.
If your Ford’s transmission fluid is leaking, you’ll find puddles of a red, oily liquid in your usual parking spots, where the front part of the car was. If the fluid is old and contaminated, it may take on a darker color. Leaks consisting of pink, diluted transmission fluid suggest that engine coolant is leaking into the transmission system. This is a serious fault that requires immediate repair.
4. Unusual Noises
Your Ford’s transmission is a complex system of hundreds of elements moving in sync. If one of these elements wears out or suffers damage, the transmission is likely to start producing unusual noises. Failing automatic transmissions tend to emit humming or whirring noises. Manual transmissions sound louder and harsher when they’re damaged, making clunking or grinding noises.
As you can see, you should be able to tell straight away that there’s something wrong with your Ford’s transmission. Luckily, many transmission issues have simple solutions, like fixing a small leak or flushing the system to replace contaminated transmission fluid. Ignoring the problem will only make it much worse, though, so schedule your service with Freeway Ford today!
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