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Common Indications of Contaminated Transmission Fluid that You Shouldn’t Ignore

Waterloo Transmissions • March 5, 2025
A jeep is sitting on a lift in a garage.

Your vehicle’s transmission fluid plays a crucial role in keeping the transmission running smoothly by lubricating its components, reducing friction, and maintaining proper temperature. Over time, the fluid can become contaminated with dirt, debris, and metal particles, leading to performance issues and potential damage. Recognizing the signs of contaminated transmission fluid early can help prevent costly repairs. At Waterloo Transmissions, we can expertly address issues related to transmission fluid. Here’s a look at four indications that your transmission fluid is contaminated.


Dark or Dirty Fluid

One of the most obvious signs of contaminated transmission fluid is a change in color. Fresh transmission fluid is typically bright red or pink. As it becomes contaminated, the fluid can turn dark due to the buildup of dirt, metal shavings, and burnt particles. If you check the dipstick and notice dark or murky fluid, it’s a strong indication that it needs to be changed.


Burnt Smell

Healthy transmission fluid has a slightly sweet or neutral scent, but when it becomes contaminated, it can develop a burnt smell. This odor is often a result of overheating and excessive friction inside the transmission, which breaks down the fluid’s lubricating properties. A burnt smell could mean that the fluid is no longer providing adequate protection, increasing the risk of internal damage. If you detect this odor, it’s important to have the transmission inspected as soon as possible.


Slipping Gears or Delayed Shifting

Contaminated transmission fluid can interfere with the transmission’s ability to shift gears smoothly. If your car hesitates when shifting or you notice unexpected gear slipping, the fluid may have lost its ability to properly engage the transmission components. Dirty fluid can prevent the hydraulic system from functioning correctly, leading to erratic shifting.


Unusual Noises

A properly functioning transmission should operate quietly, with minimal noise. When transmission fluid becomes contaminated, you may start to hear whining, grinding, or clunking sounds while driving. These noises are often caused by increased friction and a lack of proper lubrication, leading to excessive wear on the transmission’s internal parts. If you hear unusual sounds, it’s a sign that the fluid may be dirty and should be replaced before more serious damage occurs.


Transmission Service in Akron, OH

For transmission service in Akron, Canton, and Dover, OH, contact Waterloo Transmissions. Our local transmission mechanics can expertly address your vehicle’s transmission needs in Akron and the surrounding area!

Don’t Ignore these 5 Signs of Low Transmission Fluid

By Waterloo Transmissions • April 4, 2025
Your car’s transmission relies on fluid to keep its components lubricated and running smoothly. When transmission fluid levels drop too low, serious problems can arise, potentially leading to costly repairs. Recognizing the signs of low transmission fluid early can help prevent damage and keep your vehicle performing as it should. At Waterloo Transmissions, we can expertly handle leaks that cause low transmission fluid. Here are five warning signs that your car may be running low on transmission fluid. Slipping Gears One of the most noticeable signs of low transmission fluid is gear slippage. If your vehicle struggles to stay in gear or shifts unpredictably, it may not be getting enough hydraulic pressure from the transmission fluid. This can cause the engine to rev without a corresponding increase in speed, making driving both frustrating and unsafe. Delayed/Rough Shifting Low transmission fluid can lead to difficulty when shifting gears. You might notice a hesitation when accelerating or feel a jolt when the transmission changes gears. This happens because the fluid provides the necessary lubrication and pressure for smooth gear transitions. Without enough fluid, the gears struggle to engage properly, leading to rough or delayed shifting. Overheating Transmission Transmission fluid plays a critical role in keeping the system cool by reducing friction and dissipating heat. When fluid levels are too low, the transmission can overheat, leading to a burning smell coming from the engine area. Overheating can cause serious internal damage to the transmission, resulting in expensive repairs. Unusual Noises A well-functioning transmission should operate smoothly and quietly. However, when fluid levels are low, you may hear whining, grinding, or clunking noises coming from the transmission. These sounds occur because the metal components inside the transmission are not properly lubricated, leading to increased friction and wear. Transmission Fluid Leaks If you notice a puddle of reddish fluid under your vehicle, it’s a warning sign of a transmission fluid leak. Leaks can occur due to worn-out seals, gaskets, or cracks in the transmission system. Even a small leak can soon lead to low fluid levels, causing major transmission trouble. Transmission Service in Akron, OH For transmission service in Akron , Canton, and Dover, OH, contact Waterloo Transmissions. Our local transmission mechanics can expertly handle your vehicle’s transmission needs in Akron and the surrounding area!

Common Symptoms of a Transmission Problem that You Shouldn’t Ignore

By Waterloo Transmissions • February 5, 2025
Your vehicle’s transmission is essential for transferring power from the engine to the wheels, enabling smooth driving. When the transmission develops issues, it can disrupt your vehicle’s performance and may lead to increasingly expensive repairs if left unaddressed. Recognizing early warning signs of transmission trouble can help you avoid more serious damage. At Waterloo Transmissions, we can expertly diagnose and repair transmission problems. Here are four common signs of transmission trouble. Delayed or Slipping Gears One of the most noticeable signs of a transmission issue is delayed or slipping gears. You may notice a lag when shifting from park to drive or feel the vehicle slipping out of gear while driving. This can result in erratic acceleration or difficulty maintaining speed. Such problems often indicate a lack of proper hydraulic pressure, which could be caused by low transmission fluid or internal wear and tear. Unusual Noises While Driving Strange noises coming from your vehicle can also signal transmission trouble. If you hear whining, buzzing, clunking, or grinding sounds, it’s time to pay attention. These noises may occur when shifting gears or even when the car is in neutral. Unusual sounds could point to problems such as worn-out gears or insufficient lubrication. Fluid Leaks Under the Vehicle Transmission fluid is crucial for keeping the system lubricated and preventing overheating. If you notice reddish fluid pooling under your vehicle, it’s a warning sign of a transmission leak. A fluid leak can compromise the transmission’s performance, leading to overheating and internal damage. Identifying and fixing leaks early can help prevent more severe problems. Burning Smell While Driving A burning smell coming from your vehicle is never a good sign, and it could indicate that your transmission is overheating. Overheating often occurs when transmission fluid levels are low or when the fluid is old and degraded. This smell may resemble burnt toast and should be addressed immediately, as prolonged overheating can cause irreversible damage to the transmission. Transmission Repair in Akron, OH For top-quality transmission repair in Akron , Canton, and Dover, OH, contact Waterloo Transmissions. Our local transmission mechanics can expertly address your vehicle’s transmission needs!
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