7 Signs Your Kia Needs a Transmission Service

When shifting gears, listen out for strange noises, which are often the first indication of transmission problems. Given how crucial your transmission is to the proper operation of your car, never hesitate to visit your local Kia dealership for transmission service if you think your car needs it. There are many more warning signs of trouble in the gearbox, as outlined below. 

Grinding Sounds

If your gearbox starts emitting metallic grinding sounds when you shift, an internal component such as the gears or synchronizer rings may have become worn out or damaged. Alternatively, the transmission fluid may be low or degraded.

Whining Sounds 

Automatic transmissions sometimes start to whine when the fluid is low and no longer provides proper lubrication or hydraulic pressure. A faulty torque converter might also create a whining noise. Ask a technician to diagnose the cause of any odd sounds you hear. 

Delayed Engagement

Occasionally, a malfunctioning gearbox can seem hesitant to shift, leaving a delay of a few seconds before the new gear fully engages. This may result from low or bad fluid, which is often the cause of gearbox problems. Delayed shifting might also be caused by faulty control module, transmission filter, transmission bands, or issues with the clutch.

Slipping Gears

If a transmission problem worsens, it may result in slipping gears. Here, the gears could change or slip into neutral all on their own, causing a safety hazard that should be remedied at once. 

Sticking Gears

More serious faults can also prevent the gears from shifting at all. If your gears stick and refuse to shift, there may be a malfunction with the shift linkage wire, torque converter, clutch packs, or fluid. 

Revving While Shifting 

With any of the above issues, the engine is likely to rev loudly as it struggles to deliver power to the wheels despite a faulty transmission. This sometimes feels like trying to accelerate on ice. 

Dripping Transmission Fluid

Have you noticed a puddle of reddish fluid under your car? If so, you may have a transmission fluid leak on your hands. It’s unwise to drive until the leak has been repaired and the fluid topped up. As you can see from these tips, diminished fluid is the most common cause of gearbox trouble. 

Visit Your Kia Dealership To Have Your Gearbox Checked 

Your transmission should ideally be inspected by a professional every 60,000 miles, as long as it’s an automatic transmission. The fluid will need to be flushed every 60,000 to 100,000 miles. Manual transmissions require more frequent servicing than this.

Have your car’s gearbox serviced today at Kia of Marin in Novato, CA. 

Tags: auto service, Kia, Kia auto service, kia dealer, kia dealership, Kia engine service, Kia transmission service, Novato CA
Posted in Novato Kia Service | No Comments »