TROUBLESHOOTING BASIC AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION PROBLEMS

Given proper maintenance and care, the automatic transmission will provide many miles of trouble-free operation. Most minor problems can be traced to fluid level; maintaining the proper fluid level will avoid these problems. Keeping alert to changes in the operation of the transmission (different shifting patterns, abnormal sounds, fluid leakage) can prevent small problems from becoming large ones. If the problem cannot be traced to loose bolts, fluid level, overheating or a clogged fllter, seek professional service.
The Problem Is Caused By What To Do
Fluid leakage Defective pan gasket Replace gasket or tighten pan bolts
  Loose filler tube Tighten tube nut
  Loose extension housing to transmission case Tighten bolts
  Converter housing area leakage Have transmission checked professionally
Fluid flows out the oil filler tube High fluid level Check and correct fluid level
  Breather vent clogged Open breather vent
  Clogged oil filter or screen Replace filter or clean screen (change fluid also)
  Internal fluid leakage Have transmission checked professionally
Transmission overheats (this is usually accompanied by a strong burned odor to the fluid) Low fluid level Check and correct fluid level
  Fluid cooler lines clogged Drain and refill transmission. If this doesn't cure the problem, have cooler lines cleared or replaced.
  Heavy pulling or hauling with insufficient cooling Install a transmission oil cooler
  Faulty oil pump, internal slippage Have transmission checked professionally
Buzzing or whining noise Low fluid level Check and correct fluid level
  Defective torque converter, scored gears Have transmission checked professionally
No forward or reverse gears or slippage in one or more gears Low fluid level Check and correct fluid level
  Defective vacuum or linkage controls, internal clutch or band failure Have unit checked professionally
Delayed or erratic shift Low fluid level Check and correct fluid level
  Broken vacuum lines Repair or replace lines
  Internal malfunction Have transmission checked professionally

 

TROUBLESHOOTING BASIC AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION PROBLEMS