May 14, 2024

Is your Nissan in need of transmission service? You may be able to tell by the way the vehicle is handling, or by spotting evidence of a transmission fluid leak. If you think there’s a problem with your transmission, it’s important to get it checked out right away. The transmission moves power from the engine to your wheels, making it an essential component. Learn how to recognize when it’s time for transmission service at your Nissan dealership.

An image of a disassembled transmission

1. Your Vehicle Is Leaking Transmission Fluid

If you spot puddles of transmission fluid beneath your parked vehicle, that’s a sure sign that your transmission needs attention. Your vehicle has several types of fluid, including power steering fluid and motor oil, but transmission fluid is usually pink or red and has a sweet smell.

Placing a clean piece of cardboard beneath your parked vehicle is a great way of getting a good look at the fluid your vehicle is leaking. You shouldn’t drive with an active transmission fluid leak, so you’ll want to get your vehicle in for service as soon as possible.

2. You Smell Burning

The smell of burning plastic, smoke, or melting wires is another indicator of transmission trouble. This odor can indicate that your transmission is overheating or the transmission fluid is old and starting to burn. Our service department can change out the fluid to get your transmission back to optimal performance.

3. Your Gears Are Slipping

The transmission serves as your vehicle’s gearbox, so if your gears are slipping out of place while you’re driving, that could be a sign of transmission trouble. You can tell your transmission has slipped if you notice the engine revving during a gear switch. This can lead to a sensation similar to what you would feel if you were sliding over ice with no traction.

Gear slipping is also characterized by delayed acceleration, strange noises, and a rough response from the vehicle when you attempt to shift gears. It’s dangerous to drive a vehicle that won’t stay in gear, so you’ll want to schedule a service appointment immediately.

4. Your Vehicle Grinds or Shakes

If your vehicle grinds or shakes as the gears shift, particularly if you have an automatic transmission, it’s an almost certain sign that you have transmission trouble. A vehicle that struggles to change gears is also likely experiencing transmission difficulties.

Whether you need a transmission repair or simply need to have your fluids topped off, we can help. Don’t put off maintenance for this crucial component. When you’re ready to book your next service appointment, give us a call at Auffenberg Nissan in Shiloh, IL.