Your vehicle's transmission fluid is vital to the health of your transmission system. It lubricates, cools, and enables smooth gear shifts. However, when transmission fluid becomes contaminated, it can no longer perform these functions effectively, putting your transmission at risk of damage. At Edmunds Automotive Repair, our local mechanics can expertly address issues related to transmission fluid. Here are five warning signs that your transmission fluid is contaminated. 

Discolored or Dirty Fluid

Fresh transmission fluid is typically bright red. As the miles add up, contaminants such as dirt and metal shavings can make the fluid look murky. If you check the fluid dipstick and see a dark color, it’s a clear sign of contamination. Dirty fluid can lead to increased friction and wear within the transmission.

Burnt Odor

Clean transmission fluid generally has a slightly sweet smell. If you detect a burnt odor, it may indicate that the fluid has overheated and degraded, possibly due to contaminants. Overheating fluid loses its lubricating properties, which can cause significant damage to transmission components.

Unusual Transmission Noises

Contaminated fluid can prevent the proper lubrication of the transmission system, leading to unusual sounds such as grinding, whining, or clunking. These noises often occur when shifting gears and may indicate that contaminated fluid is interfering with smooth operation. Ignoring these sounds could result in costly repairs.

Slipping or Hesitant Gear Shifts

Transmission fluid contamination can disrupt the hydraulic pressure needed for smooth gear changes. As a result, you might experience delayed or slipping shifts, where the engine revs but the vehicle doesn’t accelerate as expected. These symptoms often point to dirty or degraded fluid that’s compromising the transmission’s performance.

Overheating Transmission

A properly functioning transmission fluid helps dissipate heat. Contaminated fluid loses its cooling properties, which can cause the transmission to overheat. Persistent overheating can severely damage the transmission.

Transmission Service in Surprise, AZ

For transmission service in Surprise and the surrounding area, contact Edmunds Automotive Repair at  623-259-5969. At our local auto shop, we can expertly handle your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call today to make an appointment!