If your transmission isn’t shifting correctly, you’ll want to be careful about how you choose to proceed. The best thing to do is turn the vehicle off and have a professional take a look at it, but if that isn’t an option, there are some steps you can take to ensure nothing gets damaged. At Stuart Rolfe Muffler & Auto Service in Midlotian, VA we can take a look at your issues and also give you some tips on what to do when that option isn't available yet.
Check your fluid level - The first thing you should do if you notice a transmission problem is to check the fluid level, in whatever way your owner’s manual says to. Typically it should be checked while the vehicle is in park, with the vehicle at operating temperature, and running. If your fluid is low, carefully add more until your fluid level is where it needs to be.
Check for warning lights - If there are any dash warning lights illuminated, pay attention to them. Depending on the vehicle, a technician will likely need to plug the vehicle into a scanner to see what’s going on. All transmission codes are a cause for concern, so avoid driving the vehicle if possible.
Avoid forcing the transmission to shift - Sometimes, if a transmission is failing to engage or shifting poorly, you’ll be tempted to hit the gas and run up the RPMs until it engages. While this often gets the transmission to engage and begin working, it’ll ruin one in short order - it’s extremely difficult on internals, and it often only takes a time or two to cause irreversible damage. You should have the issue diagnosed as soon as possible, rather than finding a temporary way to deal with it. It’ll likely save you a transmission replacement.
Don’t continue driving - If you notice any sort of transmission issue, don’t delay having it diagnosed and repaired. There’s often a small issue that can be corrected quickly, but that issue could cause catastrophic failure if neglected for days. Be sure to have any transmission issues looked into as soon as possible to prevent further risk of damage.
No matter your repair or maintenance needs, our technicians have you covered. For the best transmission service shop in Midlotian, VA, call or stop by Stuart Rolfe Muffler & Auto Service today.
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