T for Transmission, T for Trouble (Automatic Transmission Trouble Signs)
October 12, 2025
One of the hardest working components of your vehicle is its transmission, shifting gears up and down when you need it to. The transmission is vital to your vehicle driving properly, and if you start to see signs of problems in it, it’s best to have them fixed earlier rather than later. (Since nearly all new vehicles have automatic transmissions, we’re leaving manual transmissions for another time since their issues are different.)
One sure sign your transmission has a problem is when you notice it’s not changing gears like it used to. Or perhaps you observe when it does change gears, they slip when you are driving. Gear change problems could be as simple as something wrong with your transmission fluid, but it could be more serious, so get this one checked out soon.
Another trouble sign is when you feel your transmission shaking and vibrating as you’re accelerating, decelerating or trying to maintain a constant speed. Hearing odd noises when you are standing still and in neutral is another warning that something’s wrong,
It's always a good idea to look around on the garage floor, or wherever you park your vehicle, to see if there is anything leaking. Transmission fluid leaks are an important sign of trouble and should be followed up quickly. The fluid is usually clear or pinkish red, and it smells sweet. Call us soon if you see it under your vehicle.
Your nose can also be helpful in sensing when your transmission might need attention. Transmission fluid can burn when it overheats, and if you smell a burning smell, let your service advisor know as soon as you can. Other odors that could alert you to transmission problems are burning plastic or rubber from wires.
The earlier we can catch a transmission problem, the better. If you drive a vehicle with an automatic transmission and notice any of these trouble signs, have a technician check them out so we can “shift” our attention to it as soon as possible.
Gary Knurek GoodYear
1973 Livernois
Troy, Michigan 48083
248-362-0350
Need Service?
More articles from Gary Knurek, Authorized GoodYear Dealer

Don?t Be Hosed (Radiator Hose Replacement)
February 22, 2026
If you are like most drivers, you dont worry too much about what shape your radiator hoses are in. But they are a vital part of your coolant system, helping carry engine coolant from the hot engine to where it is cooled off in the radiator. When the cooling system has a problem, you will likel... More

You Are the Fluid Detective! (Leaking Fluids)
February 15, 2026
When you see some liquid sitting underneath your vehicle, your mind starts churning. Is that normal? Is that something serious, or did I just spill my drink? Heres a quick list of what those fluids look, smell and feel like, as well as what they might be. No, we dont recommend you taste them to ... More

Gearing Up (Differential Fluid Service)
February 8, 2026
You may have never thought about it, but when you turn a corner, the wheels on one side of your vehicle turn at a different speed than the other side. What is this magic? The answer is something called the differential. A differential is a gear box placed between the drive wheels and needs lub... More
