What are common warning signs of an automatic transmission problem?

Waterloo Transmissions • December 3, 2024
A close up of a shifter in a car.

Your car’s automatic transmission allows your vehicle to shift gears seamlessly, optimizing performance and efficiency. However, when your transmission starts to fail, it can cause major issues if not addressed promptly. As soon as you notice a symptom of automatic transmission trouble, it’s important to get to the shop as soon as possible. At Waterloo Transmissions, we provide expert automatic transmission repair in the greater Akron, OH area. Here's a look at four common signs of an automatic transmission problem to watch for.


Slipping Gears

When your transmission slips, your car might suddenly pop out of gear without any input from you. This can result in a loss of power or uneven acceleration. Gear slippage can make driving unpredictable and even dangerous, especially when merging or climbing hills. Slipping gears often indicate worn-out components or low transmission fluid levels.


Delayed or Rough Shifting

A properly functioning transmission should change gears smoothly and promptly. If you notice delays when shifting from park to drive or feel a jolt during gear changes, it’s a sign of trouble. This could be due to issues like a failing transmission solenoid or contaminated transmission fluid.


Unusual Noises

Grinding, whining, or buzzing sounds coming from your transmission area should never be ignored. These noises often signal problems such as worn bearings, damaged gears, or insufficient lubrication. If you hear these sounds while your car is in gear, it’s time to have a professional inspect your transmission.


Fluid Leaks

Transmission fluid is vital for cooling and lubricating the system, as well as providing the necessary pressure for smooth shifting. If you see reddish fluid pooling under your car, it’s a warning sign of a leak. Common leak sources include a damaged pan gasket, loose seals, or faulty transmission lines. Low fluid levels can quickly lead to overheating and severe damage, making it important to quickly address this issue.


Automatic 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!