The most common reasons why your car doesn’t shift smoothly

Driving rough? If you notice that your car is having trouble shifting gears, you may need a transmission maintenance or auto repair service. There are a number of reasons why your car may be having trouble shifting gears, some of which are more common and affordable than others. As with any transmission repair, it’s best to have a mechanic diagnose the underlying problem rather than trying to handle it yourself, but we have a few possible causes that your mechanic may be able to answer after diagnosing it.

Does automatic or manual transmission matter?

Yes and no. While automatic transmissions are mechanically different from manual transmissions and therefore may require slightly different repairs, all transmissions perform the same functions and have similar parts. Most of the reasons why your car won’t shift smoothly are the same in both automatic and manual transmissions. Regardless of which type of transmission your car has, your mechanic should be able to accurately diagnose any necessary car repairs.

What necessary car repairs could be causing your car to shift awkwardly?

Your car’s transmission is a complex system of mechanical parts. When any one of the parts wears out, it can cause noticeable problems with the car’s driving. While a mechanic must diagnose the car repairs needed for your situation, there are several possible causes.

The gearbox oil should be changed

Transmission fluid keeps all the parts inside your car’s transmission running smoothly. Just like oil changes, you should schedule a transmission fluid change service regularly. If your transmission fluid is too low or too dirty, it can cause slippage due to insufficient fluid and cause rough shifting due to increased friction. If this is a problem with your car, fortunately it’s easy to fix as long as the low fluid doesn’t cause long-term damage, but you should schedule a transmission fluid change service as soon as possible to prevent further damage.

Clutch failure

No matter which type of transmission you have, it uses a clutch to help shift gears. If the clutch is worn, it can cause difficulty or Shifting gears is not smooth. This can also cause the gears to slip, so if you notice your car slipping out of gear while driving, it may indicate that repairs are needed. Although the clutch will wear out over time, old or insufficient transmission fluid can accelerate clutch wear.

Worn gears

Over time, especially with manual transmissions, gears can wear out, which can make it difficult to shift and hold gears. If your car isn’t shifting smoothly, especially if you’ve ruled out the transmission fluid as an issue, it could be a worn gear or synchronizer. This can present similar symptoms to a faulty clutch, so it’s important to have a trusted technician diagnose the necessary car repairs.

Torque converter failure

In an automatic transmission, the torque converter transfers power from the engine to the transmission and then to the wheels. The torque converter also carries a clutch, which can wear out, causing the transmission to have problems when overrevving and the engine to rev higher than normal when cruising. If the torque converter is completely damaged, it can also cause the engine to stall and make noises when stopped. This component can also cause other problems with the engine and transmission, so it’s important to have it checked by a mechanic.

Solenoid valve failure

How does the transmission fluid flow through the transmission? Valves operated by solenoids. They are electric hydraulic valves that open and close to allow the right amount of transmission fluid to flow at the right time. This helps keep the transmission running smoothly, and if one or more solenoids become worn, clogged, or stuck, it can cause rough shifts or the transmission to not shift at all.

Sensor failure

Modern cars rely on a large number of sensors to keep various systems functioning properly. Whether they are monitoring engine or transmission temperature or vehicle speed, they all play an important role and can fail over time. In automatic transmissions, some of these sensors tell the transmission when to change gears. If the speed recorded is incorrect, this can cause erratic or jerky shifts. Fortunately, replacing a sensor is sometimes relatively simple and can make a big difference to drivability.

Need a transmission repair? Go to your nearest AAMCO store

If you’re concerned about your car’s transmission, then visit an AAMCO near you. Our transmission experts are trained on every type of transmission on the road today and are equipped to diagnose and repair any part your vehicle needs. If you have questions, give us a call or schedule an appointment online today.