Your transmission’s job is to send power generated by your engine’s 4-stroke combustion process to the wheels. It accomplishes this while keeping the engine operating within a certain range of RPMs to maximize performance and efficiency. After tens of thousands of miles, your tranny will begin to display signs of wear. One of the symptoms involves slippage.

A slipping transmission is one that hesitates before engaging the right gear for a given set of driving circumstances. This hesitation may only last a second or less, but is obvious to the driver. It will worsen with time. If the slippage is left unaddressed, the underlying problem can potentially lead to expensive repairs or worse, an overhaul.

Below, we’ll take a look at some of the possible reasons your tranny may be slipping. I’ll describe how low fluid levels, worn parts, and a failing torque converter can each play a role.

Low Fluid Level

Your transmission needs a constant supply of fluid in the same way your engine needs oil. The fluid lubricates the moving parts (i.e. gears, clutches, etc.) and prevents unnecessary friction. It also helps to ensure your tranny can find the appropriate gears quickly and seamlessly. The problem is, fluid can leak from a number of seals and gaskets. If the level declines too far, you may experience slippage.

The most effective way to prevent low fluid levels from causing a slip in your gears is to check the level every two or three weeks. Replenish it whenever it is low. If you notice the level routinely declines more quickly than it should, there is likely a leak somewhere in your transmission. Have a mechanic fix it as soon as possible.

Worn Bands And Gears

Your tranny is comprised of gearsets, bands, clutches, seals, gaskets, and myriad other parts that work together to send the engine’s power to your wheels. The bands are steel straps that are wrapped around drums. One end is connected to a component called the servo. Pressurized oil is delivered to the servo, which tightens the band and prevents the drum’s rotation.

Gears come in several combinations. Sun gears, planet gears, and ring gears rotate in an intricate, interlocking design. These gears reflect driving conditions.

Bands and gears can become worn over time. When this occurs, your transmission may have difficulty finding the right gear whenever your engine hits a certain RPM marker.

Malfunctioning Torque Converter

Your torque converter is responsible for sending torque to your transmission. It allows your engine to continue running even when your vehicle is at a full stop. There are fins inside this component that can wear down or break. If either occurs, your tranny will begin to slip. Replacing this component will usually resolve the problem.

Reseal, Replace Parts, Or Overhaul?

If you experience slippage problems with your transmission, you should have a trained technician inspect the assembly. If the issue is due to low fluid levels, he can check for leaks in the seals and gaskets. If the slip is caused by worn parts, he can recommend an appropriate course of action. The problem may be so extensive that you might need to have the assembly completely overhauled.

Leaks are relatively simple to fix. As long as they are coming from somewhere other than the front seal, the mechanic can usually reseal them without removing your tranny. Replacing worn parts may be more problematic, depending on the assembly’s construction. Many parts will require the mechanic to remove the assembly in order reach them.

An overhaul is expensive. The transmission is removed and taken completely apart after which every individual piece is inspected and cleaned, or replaced. The assembly is then put back together.

A slipping transmission is almost always a sign of worse things to come. If you notice slippage while driving, have your mechanic diagnose and resolve the root cause as soon as possible.

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Category: Automotive
Keywords: transmission, transmission repair, torque converter, car parts, auto parts, vehicles