When your car isn’t operating as expected, or you notice odd sounds or smells, you may have a problem with an important component such as your transmission. If you notice any of these signs, head to your neighborhood Kia dealer for a thorough transmission service. Getting the problem diagnosed and fixed right away can prevent more extensive damage to your vehicle.
1. Transmission Won’t Stay in Gear
You may notice your vehicle doesn’t engage when you try to shift into drive. It might stall out or slip when it should be shifting gears, down-shift harshly, or rev too much when shifting up a gear. These issues could signify a problem with the shifter or shifter cable or indicate low transmission fluid.
2. Illuminated Check Engine Light
The check engine light on your dashboard can indicate a range of problems, including transmission issues. Bring your car in for service as soon as possible if you notice that this symbol is illuminated. The vehicle’s sensors can often detect a concern with its systems before you experience other issues.
3. Unusual Smells
If you notice a burning smell when you drive, it could be coming from an overheated transmission. In this situation, your transmission fluid may be leaking or too dirty to lubricate the car’s moving parts effectively. Sometimes, the hot fluid smells slightly sweet or similar to petroleum. The liquid will be translucent and feel slick and oily to the touch.
4. Fluid Under the Vehicle
You may spot a puddle of red fluid under your vehicle if you have a transmission fluid leak. The system could have a damaged seal, gasket, or cooler line. Have your Kia checked right away if you see any type of liquid leaks.
5. Strange Noises
Have your transmission checked if your car makes humming, buzzing, or whining sounds, which can occur either when you’re in drive or neutral. Clunking noises or sensations when shifting gears as well as shaking or grinding when accelerating can also signify a transmission issue.
6. Failure to Start
If an advanced transmission problem occurs, your car may refuse to start at all. If you have a manual transmission, you might be unable to move the shifter when holding down the clutch, preventing the car from going into gear. Taking care of the issue as soon as you notice anything unusual can help you avoid an inconvenient breakdown. You can prevent many transmission-related issues by having your Kia regularly serviced according to manufacturer recommendations. Most models should have a transmission fluid check every 12 months or 12,000 miles and a full fluid change about every 60,000 miles. Call Bergstrom Kia Appleton in Appleton, WI today to schedule a service appointment with one of our knowledgeable, professional technicians.
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Warranties include 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain and 5-year/60,000-mile basic. All warranties and roadside assistance are limited. See retailer for warranty details.