Recognizing early warning signs of a failing transmission and suspension can help prevent serious damage and costly repairs. At Greasemonkey Inspectors, we provide expert pre-purchase vehicle inspection services. If you notice any of the following signs, contact us for a thorough inspection.
Warning Signs of Transmission Failure
The transmission is the car’s gearbox that transmits power from the engine to the wheels using gears and automatic or manual gear ratios. Without it, the engine would run, but you wouldn’t be able to drive.
Struggles to Change Gears or Unresponsiveness
If your car struggles to change gears or becomes unresponsive, it could be a sign of low transmission fluid. It’s crucial to top up these fluids or flush out the wrong transmission fluid to prevent irreversible damage.
Slipping Gears
Gears slipping in and out of sync can be dangerous on the road and often result from normal wear and tear. If your gears are slipping, a transmission flush repair is necessary.
Leaking Transmission Fluid
Transmission fluid is red and smells sweet. If you notice this leak underneath your car, head to an auto repair shop as soon as possible.
Burning Smell
A burning smell can indicate that your transmission is overheating or the transmission fluid is burning.
Strange Noises When in Neutral
Noises when your car is in neutral may indicate a need for new transmission oil or a replacement.
Grinding or Shaking
Grinding or shaking when changing gears in an automatic transmission signals transmission problems.
Warning Signs of Suspension Failure
The vehicle’s suspension is responsible for its overall performance. It smooths out the ride and allows you to control the vehicle when stopping or turning.
Bouncing on Every Bump
A rough ride indicates that your vehicle’s struts or shocks are wearing out.
Car Dips or Lurches Forward When Stopping
If your car ‘nosedives’ when you apply the brakes firmly, there is an issue with the suspension. This increases your stop time by up to 20 percent and raises your risk of an accident.
Uneven Tire Tread Wear
Uneven tire tread wear means that the suspension is putting uneven pressure on the tires. This can decrease the lifespan of your tires, leading to costly replacements.
Car Drifts or Pulls When Turning
A bad suspension causes your vehicle to drift or pull when turning because the shocks can’t keep the vehicle stable. This increases your risk of a rollover, making it essential to seek suspension repair immediately.
Fails the ‘Bounce Test’
To test your car’s suspension, place your car in park and press down on the front with all your weight, then release. If the car bounces more than two or three times, your suspension is wearing out.
Trust Greasemonkey Inspectors
As a car owner, you know your vehicle best and can tell when it’s not performing as it should. Never neglect these two crucial components. Address problems as soon as you notice something off. Even minor incidents should be checked to prevent major damage. Contact Greasemonkey Inspectors for Inspections Packages and ensure your car’s transmission and suspension are in top condition.