What causes Transmission Gear Slipping?

Waterloo Transmissions • June 5, 2024
A person is working on a gearbox with a screwdriver.

Transmission gear slipping is a common issue that can significantly impact the performance and drivability of your vehicle. Understanding the causes of gear slipping can help you identify the problem early and seek timely repairs, ensuring the longevity and reliability of your transmission. At Waterloo Transmissions in Ohio, we fix transmission issues that cause gear slipping, including these top causes.


Low or Contaminated Transmission Fluid

One of the primary causes of transmission gear slipping is low or contaminated transmission fluid. Transmission fluid is crucial for lubricating the moving parts of the transmission and ensuring smooth gear shifts. When the fluid level is low, or the fluid is contaminated with debris or sludge, it can lead to inadequate lubrication and overheating, causing the gears to slip. 


Worn or Damaged Clutch Components

In manual transmissions, the clutch is responsible for engaging and disengaging the gears. Over time, clutch components such as the clutch disc, pressure plate, and release bearing can wear out or become damaged, leading to gear slipping. In automatic transmissions, a similar issue can occur with the clutch packs inside the transmission. If you notice your vehicle slipping out of gear or struggling to shift smoothly, it might be time to inspect and replace these components.


Faulty or Worn Transmission Bands

Transmission bands are used in automatic transmissions to link various gears and control the power flow within the transmission. Over time, these bands can become worn or stretched, causing them to lose their grip on the gears. This loss of grip can result in gear slipping and erratic shifting. Replacing or adjusting the transmission bands can often resolve this issue.


Worn or Broken Gears

The gears inside your transmission are subject to significant wear and tear over time. If the gears become worn, chipped, or broken, they can fail to engage properly, resulting in gear slipping. Regular maintenance and timely repairs are essential to prevent severe gear damage and ensure smooth transmission operation.


Faulty Torque Converter 

In automatic transmissions, the torque converter transfers engine power to the transmission. If the torque converter is damaged or malfunctioning, it can cause the transmission to slip. Common signs of torque converter issues include shuddering, overheating, and slipping gears. Addressing torque converter problems early can prevent further damage to the transmission.


Your car’s transmission is essential to its driveability. If you notice gear slipping, be sure to visit Waterloo Transmissions for professional transmission service in Akron, Canton or Dover. With three convenient locations to serve you, we make it easy to take care of your car. Give us a call at the transmission shop near you to schedule an appointment for diagnostics or to request an estimate for transmission repair costs.

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!