Why is my transmission slipping?

If your transmission is slipping, it usually means your car is having trouble staying in the right gear — and that’s a sign something’s not right. Here's a breakdown of common causes and what to watch for:

What Transmission Slipping Feels Like:

  • The engine revs higher than normal when shifting

  • Delayed or hard shifts

  • Sudden loss of power

  • Gears change without input (especially in automatics)

  • Burning smell or unusual noises

Common Causes of Transmission Slipping:

  1. Low or Dirty Transmission Fluid

    • Transmission fluid lubricates and cools the system.

    • Low or burnt fluid can’t build enough pressure to keep gears engaged.
      Check fluid level, color (should be bright red), and smell (shouldn’t be burnt).

  2. Worn Clutch (Manual or Automatic)

    • In manual cars, the clutch may be worn out.

    • In automatics, internal clutch packs may be failing.

  3. Worn or Damaged Gears

    • Metal shavings in the fluid could mean internal damage.

  4. Bad Torque Converter

    • The torque converter transfers power from the engine to the transmission.

    • If it’s slipping, you’ll feel shuddering or hesitation.

  5. Faulty Transmission Solenoids

    • Solenoids control the flow of fluid. If they fail, gear engagement becomes unreliable.

  6. Software or Sensor Issues

    • Newer vehicles rely on computers and sensors. A bad speed sensor or control module can cause shifting problems.

What to Do Next:

If you suspect your transmission is slipping:

  • Check the fluid first

  • Don’t wait — slipping can cause more internal damage if ignored.

  • Schedule a diagnostic at Lifetime Automotive

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