A transmission replacement is one of the most expensive repairs that you might need to have done on your car. While transmissions generally last for 100,000 miles, getting your transmission fixed before it needs a complete replacement can help extend the life of your transmission. When you want to avoid costly car repairs, it's important not to ignore the signs that your transmission is having problems.

Your Transmission Keeps Slipping

If you are driving your car and it feels as if the gears change for no reason, this could indicate that your transmission is slipping. Your automatic transmission is responsible for keeping your car in the right gear while you are driving. When it slips, this can feel like your car doesn't have enough power or is not accelerating as it normally does. If you are pressing down on the gas and your car won't accelerate, your transmission could be the issue. You may even notice a slight whining sound coming from your engine or a change in the tone your engine usually makes.

Your Car is Shifting Roughly

When you are driving your car and you notice that your car is having trouble shifting gears, this can mean your transmission is starting to fail. If you try to pick up speed and you hear clunking noises, your car is having trouble getting into the right gear. Another sign your car might be shifting roughly is when you are driving along, and your car starts to rev because it can't get into a higher gear. When the shift from gear to gear is not going smoothly, your transmission needs repair.

Your Car Engages Into Gear Slowly

The shift from park to drive results in an immediate forward movement when your car is running well. When your transmission is having problems, this can cause a significant delay in the time it takes for your car to engage into gear. It's possible that your car's engine will rev, yet you will remain in park despite putting your car into drive. Cars that engage slowly into gear will eventually stop engaging at all if you don't get the problem fixed.

You Have Fluid Leaks Under Your Car

If you notice fluid leaks on your driveway or in your garage, it's important to determine if these leaks are new or active. Place cardboard under your car at night, and check to see if the cardboard has drips on it in the morning. Transmission fluid does not naturally leak, and it is generally red or dark red in color. If you see a leak, get the car repaired.

For more information, contact a professional in your area or visit a website like http://www.atomictransmission.com.