Hirst Transmission Specialists Blog
Your vehicle’s automatic transmission is responsible for transferring power from the engine to the wheels smoothly and efficiently. When transmission problems arise, they can quickly escalate into expensive repairs and even total transmission failure if ignored. Recognizing early warning signs and addressing them promptly can potentially save you a lot of money and frustration. At Hirst Transmission Specialists, we provide expert automatic transmission repair in the greater Pensacola area. Here are four common automatic transmission problems that require immediate attention. Slipping Gears If your transmission is slipping, you might notice your car unexpectedly changing gears while driving or a sudden loss of acceleration. This issue can be caused by worn clutch plates, low transmission fluid, or damaged internal components. Slipping gears can put you in a dangerous situation, as it affects your control over the vehicle. Prompt repairs are necessary to prevent further damage and ensure safe driving. Delayed or Rough Shifting Smooth shifting is a hallmark of a healthy automatic transmission. If you feel a delay when the transmission shifts into gear or experience jerky transitions, something is wrong. These symptoms could be caused by low or contaminated fluid, worn solenoids, or internal wear and tear. Ignoring these signs could lead to further damage to the transmission’s internal components. Transmission Fluid Leaks Transmission fluid is essential for lubricating parts, cooling the system, and enabling smooth gear shifts. If you notice reddish fluid pooling under your vehicle, you likely have a transmission fluid leak. Even a small leak can cause low fluid levels, leading to overheating and severe internal damage. This problem needs immediate attention to locate and fix the leak and restore proper fluid levels. Burning Smell A burning odor coming from your vehicle may indicate overheated transmission fluid. Overheating can cause the fluid to lose its ability to lubricate and protect the transmission, leading to accelerated wear and potential failure. If you notice this smell, pull over safely and have your transmission checked ASAP to help prevent permanent damage. Automatic Transmission Repair in Pensacola When you need transmission repair in Pensacola and the surrounding area, contact Hirst Transmission Specialists at (850) 478-3395. Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment for transmission services in greater Pensacola!
Your vehicle’s transmission relies on fluid to function properly, providing the lubrication, cooling, and hydraulic pressure needed for smooth gear shifts and overall performance. When a transmission fluid leak develops, it may start as a small drip, but ignoring it can quickly lead to major problems. Even minor leaks can compromise the health of your transmission and result in costly damage if left unaddressed. Acting quickly to fix a transmission fluid leak is essential to protect your vehicle. At Hirst Transmission Specialists, we provide expert transmission fluid leak repair in the greater Pensacola area. Here are four important reasons to deal with these leaks as soon as they appear. Transmission Damage Can Happen Quickly Without enough fluid, your transmission cannot operate efficiently. Transmission fluid reduces friction and heat within the system, and a drop in fluid levels increases the risk of overheating and internal damage. Once this damage begins, it often leads to extensive repairs or may even require full transmission replacement. Fixing a leak early helps you avoid major mechanical problems. Leaking Fluid Affects Performance When fluid levels drop due to a leak, your transmission may begin to exhibit performance issues. You might notice delayed or jerky gear shifts, slipping gears, or inconsistent acceleration. A leak can cause pressure loss in the system, interfering with the ability to change gears smoothly. Prompt repairs can prevent further performance decline. Increased Repair Costs Over Time Addressing a small leak early is far less expensive than repairing the damage caused by running your vehicle with insufficient fluid. If the leak is ignored, the resulting internal damage can lead to several thousands of dollars in repair costs. Fixing the leak as soon as it's detected helps you avoid these high expenses and extends the life of your transmission. Environmental and Safety Concerns Transmission fluid is toxic and harmful to the environment. A leak that accumulates on your garage floor not only could stain it, but also potentially poses a safety hazard for pets and children. It can also become a fire hazard if it leaks near hot engine components. Addressing leaks promptly helps protect both your surroundings and the people around you. Transmission Repair in Pensacola, FL When you need transmission repair in Pensacola and the surrounding area, contact Hirst Transmission Specialists at (850) 478-3395. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!
Your vehicle’s transmission plays a vital role in transferring power from the engine to the wheels. It’s also one of the more costly components to repair or replace. Many transmission issues can be traced back to avoidable driver habits. By understanding these common mistakes, you can take steps to preserve your transmission and avoid costly repairs down the road. Neglecting Regular Maintenance One of the most damaging mistakes drivers make is ignoring their vehicle’s recommended maintenance schedule. Transmission fluid needs to be checked and changed periodically to keep the system lubricated and cool. Over time, the fluid can become dirty or lose its effectiveness, which can lead to overheating and internal damage. Skipping maintenance allows minor issues to grow into major problems that could have been prevented with routine service. Shifting Between Forward and Reverse While the Vehicle Is Moving Some drivers switch between reverse and drive without coming to a complete stop, especially when parking or making quick maneuvers. This may seem harmless, but it puts serious strain on the transmission components. The transmission is designed to shift when the vehicle is stationary, and forcing it to change directions while in motion can cause internal wear and even mechanical failure over time. Towing Beyond Capacity Towing heavy loads without the proper equipment or exceeding your vehicle’s towing capacity is another common cause of transmission trouble. When your vehicle is overloaded, the transmission has to work much harder, which increases heat and wear. Driving with Low or Old Transmission Fluid Just like your engine oil, transmission fluid needs to be at the right level and in good condition to do its job. Driving with low or degraded fluid can lead to poor shifting, overheating, and internal damage. If you notice reddish fluid leaking from under your vehicle or experience sluggish shifting, it’s important to get the transmission inspected right away. Transmission Repair in Pensacola, FL When you need transmission repair in Pensacola and the surrounding area, contact Hirst Transmission Specialists at (850) 478-3395. At our local transmission shop, we can expertly address your vehicle’s transmission needs. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!
