What Is a Car Transmission?

Let’s Talk Transmissions

The transmission resides under the hood of your car and distributes power to your wheels to get your car to go. Much like a 10-speed bicycle, the gears work to make this action happen. Keeping the transmission up to speed can be done with regular checkups at our Toyota service center.

When the transmission is in trouble, your car will not make a move. Make sure that you stay on schedule for routine services such as fluid top-offs for the transmission.

Signs That Your Transmission Needs Help

Although it’s best to review your maintenance schedule and get your transmission checked at the proper intervals, watching out for signs of trouble can put you on the road to prevention.

Grinding noises can cause you to pause, no matter what it is. This is a sign that your transmission may need more fluid to run well.

Burning toast smells may emit from your car when your transmission needs attention. This means that the fluid may be old and needs to be replaced. Once a service tech replaces it, your car can smell sweet again.

Shaking or slipping gears can be puzzling and unsettling. Take this as your sign that your transmission needs a tune-up.

And you always want to pay attention to the dashboard light that turns on. It could be an electronic glitch, or it could be that a system needs a quick fix.

Do You Have a Transmission Leak?

Some transmissions develop leaks, and there’s an easy way to tell if you have one. General wear-and-tear may cause a leak, or the torque pump could be cracked, and it’s best to get service for your vehicle if you discover the leak.

Place a piece of cardboard or cloth under your car overnight or for a little while. Park your car so that the material is right under the center of your car. Remove the material from under the car and check it.

Does a reddish-pink stain appear? Does it smell vaguely like fruit punch or another sweet smell? This means that your car harbors a transmission leak.