Is your vehicle’s transmission filter clogged? It’s a common cause of transmission troubles, but it is also one of the easiest problems to avoid. Regularly cleaning or replacing the dirty fluid can prevent the issue and keep your vehicle on the road and performing optimally.
Unfortunately, many car owners neglect this vital maintenance task, decreasing the vehicle’s lifespan and increasing costly repairs. It can help to understand the red flags indicating there is a clogged filter. Do you know how to spot them? Read on to discover the five most common signs of a clogged transmission filter.
Sign #1: Leaking Transmission Fluid
When there is a transmission filter clog, the system’s fluid cannot flow smoothly. This leads to internal components like gaskets, seals, and bearings undergoing unnecessary wear and tear. As a result, you may notice transmission fluid leaking from the system. Even a minor leak requires professional attention as soon as possible to identify whether it is a result of a clog or another issue like a crack in the transmission housing. A qualified transmission repair service can diagnose the problem and provide a solution to address the source of the leak.
Sign #2: Dirty Transmission Fluid
How can you know if your transmission fluid is contaminated? A clog can happen when the fluid is too dirty and can’t effectively remove the contaminates for optimal operation. Over time, the fluid can accumulate metal particles, dust, and other debris. Therefore, a practical maintenance task is to check the fluid for contamination signs at least once each month. Signs of floating debris or discoloration mean you should have a mechanic flush the system and remove filter clogs.
Sign #3: Slipping Transmission or Shifting Problems
A transmission filter clog may be to blame if you notice grinding gears, slipping transmission, or other shifting problems. The transmission’s internal components require lubrication to function optimally, and a clog prevents proper lubrication.
Sign #4: Odd Noises
Have you noticed strange noises like clunking, rattling, or grinding when driving your car? It can be unsettling for any vehicle owner. Rather than turning up the music and hoping for the best, take the vehicle in for professional transmission repair. There’s a chance the unpleasant noises result from transmission damage or a filter clog.
Sign #5: Strange Smells
Clean transmission fluid has a sweet smell, but when it is dirty, or there is a clog, it can begin to burn, leading to an unpleasant burnt odor. A burning smell can also occur when the components do not have proper lubrication due to a lack of clean, free-flowing transmission fluid.
To get to the bottom of your transmission troubles quickly and affordably, turn to the trusted experts at Guardian Transmission. We specialize in repairing transmissions and will help you identify any of these common signs of a clogged transmission filter. Then, we will provide the maintenance and repair services you need to help your vehicle operate its best. Call 770-509-2140 or contact us online to schedule an appointment today.