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!

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!

Common Automatic Transmission Problems that Should Be Promptly Addressed by the Mechanic

By Waterloo Transmissions • August 7, 2025
Your car’s automatic transmission plays a critical role in delivering power from the engine to the wheels, enabling smooth gear changes and overall drivability. When transmission issues arise, they often start small but can quickly escalate into major repairs if left unaddressed. That’s why it’s important to recognize the early warning signs of trouble and get your vehicle to a trusted mechanic before further damage occurs. At Waterloo Transmissions, we provide expert automatic transmission repair in the greater Akron, OH area. Here’s a look at four common automatic transmission problems that should be checked out by a professional right away. Gear Slippage If your car seems to change gears unexpectedly or struggles to stay in gear, it’s likely experiencing gear slippage. This can happen when the transmission fluid is low or degraded, or when there’s internal wear within the system. Gear slippage not only affects your car’s performance but also poses a serious safety risk, especially when accelerating or merging onto highways. Delayed or Harsh Shifting A properly functioning automatic transmission should shift gears smoothly and promptly. If you notice a delay when shifting into drive or reverse, or if the shifts feel rough or jarring, it could indicate a mechanical or hydraulic problem. These problems often worsen over time, so it’s best to have a technician conduct an inspection as soon as possible. Transmission Fluid Leaks Automatic transmissions rely on fluid to lubricate components and maintain proper hydraulic pressure. If you spot reddish fluid under your car, there may be a leak from the pan gasket, seals, or transmission lines. Fluid loss can lead to overheating and internal damage, potentially requiring a complete transmission overhaul. A mechanic can pinpoint the source of the leak and repair it before more serious damage occurs. Unusual Noises While Driving Strange noises like whining, grinding, or buzzing while the car is in gear are strong indications of transmission trouble. These sounds may result from issues like worn bearings or insufficient fluid levels. Any unusual noise should be inspected by a mechanic to avoid a breakdown. Automatic 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!