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

Waterloo Transmissions • February 5, 2025
A close up of a car engine with a drive shaft.

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!

4 Tips for Keeping Your Transmission in Great Shape

By Waterloo Transmissions • October 1, 2025
Your vehicle’s transmission is one of its most critical components, responsible for transferring power from the engine to the wheels. Because of its importance and complexity, transmission repairs can become quite extensive. The good news is that with proper care and attention, you can help extend the life of your transmission and avoid major headaches down the road. Here are four tips to help keep your transmission in great shape for years to come. Stay Current with Fluid Changes Transmission fluid is the lifeblood of the system, keeping it cool and lubricated. Over time, fluid breaks down, collects debris, and loses its effectiveness. Regular fluid checks and timely changes are essential for maintaining smooth operation and preventing internal damage. If the fluid looks dark or has a burnt smell, it’s time for service. Keeping the fluid fresh helps reduce wear and enables your transmission to operate at its best. Avoid Overloading Your Vehicle Every vehicle has its weight limits. Consistently carrying more than your vehicle is designed for can lead to overheating and premature wear of transmission components. Whether you’re towing a trailer or hauling heavy cargo, staying within the recommended limits will go a long way toward protecting your transmission. Don’t Shift Between Drive and Reverse While Moving Shifting abruptly from drive to reverse, or vice versa, while the vehicle is still rolling is a common but damaging habit. This action forces the transmission to stop the vehicle’s momentum suddenly, which puts excessive strain on the gears and internal parts. Always come to a complete stop before changing gears to prevent unnecessary wear. Get to the Shop if You Notice Signs of Trouble Transmissions often give warning signs before they fail completely. Hesitation when shifting, slipping gears, unusual noises, or fluid leaks are all red flags that something may be wrong. Ignoring these issues can turn a minor repair into a major replacement. Getting to the shop at the first sign of trouble gives you the best chance of addressing problems early and keeping costs manageable. Transmission Service in Akron, OH For top-quality transmission service in Akron, Canton, and Dover, OH, contact Waterloo Transmissions. Our nearby transmission mechanics can expertly address your vehicle’s transmission needs in Akron and the surrounding area!
Gray automotive transmission with drive shaft attached.

Warning Signs that Your Vehicle May Need Transmission Fluid Leak Repair

By Waterloo Transmissions • September 6, 2025
Your vehicle’s transmission plays a vital role in keeping your car moving smoothly, and transmission fluid is the lifeblood that keeps everything operating properly. When there’s a leak, the transmission can quickly become compromised, leading to costly repairs or even complete failure. Because the transmission is such a critical and expensive component, it’s important to know the warning signs of a fluid leak so you can address the problem before it gets worse. At Waterloo Transmissions, we provide expert transmission fluid leak repair in the greater Akron area. Here are four signs that your car may need transmission fluid leak repair. Visible Fluid Under Your Car One of the most obvious signs of a transmission fluid leak is spotting reddish liquid under your vehicle after it’s been parked. Transmission fluid is commonly bright red when newer, but may turn more brownish as it ages. If you notice puddles or spots, it’s time to have your transmission inspected by a professional. Low or Dropping Fluid Levels Checking your transmission fluid regularly is a smart habit, and if you notice the fluid level dropping quickly, it often points to a leak. Even small leaks can cause the fluid to drain over time, leaving the transmission without the lubrication it needs. Running a transmission with low fluid can cause overheating and serious internal damage. Slipping Gears A transmission that isn’t getting enough fluid may begin to slip while driving. This happens when there isn’t enough hydraulic pressure for the transmission to stay properly engaged in a gear. If your car feels like it’s shifting unexpectedly or struggling to stay in gear, it could be due to fluid loss from a leak. Delayed or Rough Shifting Another common symptom of a transmission fluid leak is experiencing rough, jerky, or delayed gear changes. Transmission fluid not only provides lubrication, but also helps create the pressure needed for smooth shifts. If the fluid is leaking, your vehicle may start to hesitate before changing gears or lurch between shifts, signaling the need for immediate attention. Transmission Repair in Akron, OH For top-quality transmission repair in Akron, Canton, and Dover, OH , contact Waterloo Transmissions . Our nearby transmission mechanics can expertly address your vehicle’s transmission needs in greater Akron!