As the owner of an automobile, the last thing you want to hear is that you have to replace your transmission. The transmission plays a very important role by allowing a vehicle to shift gears and also transmitting power to the drive train, and replacing this part can come with a hefty bill. Luckily, transmissions rarely fail overnight-- there are typically many signs that a transmission is in need of repair. If you know the signs of transmission problems, you can get your transmission fixed before it gets to the point of needing to be replaced. Some of the common signs that a transmission needs repair include:

Rough Shifting

Issues shifting from park to drive or reverse is a very common sign of transmission problems. A transmission that is in good repair should shift smoothly, so if you notice that your vehicle buckles or shudders while you are changing gears it is a good idea to take it in to an auto repair shop as soon as possible. 

Vehicle Does Not Respond

A vehicle should move immediately after switching gears, but it is not uncommon for there to be a delay in response if there is something wrong with the transmission. After shifting gears you may hear the engine rev when you press the gas, but it may take several seconds for the vehicle to engage-- this typically means that there is an issue with the transmission transmitting power to the drive train properly.

Slipping Gears While Driving

If your transmission slips while you are driving, it can be a very unsettling feeling. Basically, your vehicle will fall out of drive and cease to operate properly. You may have trouble accelerating, which can be dangerous if you are driving on a freeway or highway where it is necessary to drive at higher speeds. If your transmission slips while you're driving, it is important to get off the road as soon as possible. Do not drive your vehicle again until it is properly repaired by an experienced mechanic.

Leaking Fluid

A transmission leak can be a serious problem, since a lack of transmission fluid can cause damage to a transmission. In many cases, transmission fluid is red in color. If you notice that your vehicle is leaking fluid, try putting a piece of cardboard underneath it to make it easier to identify the color of the fluid. If it is leaking red fluid, take your vehicle to a transmission repair shop to have the leak repaired.