The transmission on a used car is one of the most critical parts to check. If you don’t take the time to do a thorough check, you could end up with severe problems down the road.
Here are some transmission issues to look for when test driving used cars fresno:
1. Slipping gears
If you notice that the car seems to slip out of gear while you’re driving, this is a definite red flag. This could be a sign of serious transmission problems and will likely need to be repaired by a professional.
What does it feel like when a car slips out of gear?
If you’re experiencing slipping gears, it will feel like the car is losing power suddenly. You may also notice that the engine RPMs increase without the car speeding up.
2. Grinding gears
Hearing a grinding sound when you shift gears is another sign that there could be transmission problems. This is usually caused by worn-out parts and must be fixed as soon as possible.
The sound of grinding gears is usually very noticeable and alarming. If you hear this while test-driving a used car, you will not want to buy it.
It’s never good when a car makes strange noises, so make sure to get any suspicious sounds checked out by a professional.
3. Burning smell
This is one of those things that can make your heart race when you’re behind the wheel. If you smell something burning while driving, it’s a cause for concern.
A burning smell could mean the transmission fluid is leaking and getting onto hot parts of the engine. This can cause serious damage and will need to be fixed immediately.
What does burning transmission fluid smell like? Burning transmission fluid usually smells sweet or fruity. If you notice this smell while driving, pull over and call the dealership immediately to tell them something is wrong.
4. Check engine light
That pesky check engine light can be a pain, but it’s there for a reason. If the check engine light is on in a used car, it could be a sign of transmission problems.
When you’re test-driving a car, pay attention to the check engine light and see if it comes on at any point. If it does, ask the dealership about it before buying the car.
5. Leaking fluid
Any time a car is leaking fluid, it’s cause for concern. This is a red flag if you notice transmission fluid leaking from the car.
Transmission fluid is vital for proper transmission operation, so a leak can cause serious problems. It’s best to walk away from any car that’s leaking transmission fluid.
The fluid in a transmission is the lifeblood of the system. If there’s a significant leak, it could mean big problems down the road.
These are just a few transmission issues when test-driving a used car. If you notice any of these problems, it’s best to walk away from the sale.
Whether you fall in love with the car or not, transmission problems are not something you want to deal with. It’s best to play it safe and find a car with no major issues.