You may notice that moving the gear shift into or out of gears becomes extremely difficult in a manual transmission. For automatic transmissions, the reverse gear may go out, or the vehicle may slip out of gear while driving, causing the engine to roar.

If you notice a strange vibration, especially at one speed or speed range, it can indicate the transmission or a transmission component needs to be repaired or replaced.

If you notice a warning light flashing on your instrument cluster — especially a light that says “O/D,” which indicates the “overdrive” gear — the vehicle’s onboard diagnostic system has registered an error with the transmission.

If you hear a clunk or thump, it’s a sure sign of a serious transmission error that requires immediate attention. If you drive a manual transmission vehicle and notice a grinding noise, it can indicate the clutch is no longer disengaging correctly.

The transmission operates at high temperatures, and without the correct amount of transmission fluid to lubricate it; the transmission can overheat and fail. If you notice a chemical or burning smell, call Silver Spring Automotive.

If you notice brown, red, or pink puddles or leaks under your vehicle, it could be a transmission leak from a faulty gasket or seal. The experts at Silver Spring Automotive will tell you when to change your transmission fluid to help you avoid costly repairs.

Transmission problems are costly repairs; preventative measures will protect your car from transmission damage.