5 Signs That Your Transmission is Failing

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As with most things, identifying problems with your vehicle when they first arise can save you from some costly and extensive repairs in the future. This is especially true for your car’s transmission, which is one of its most essential parts. Transmission repairs, rebuilds, and replacements can be one of the most expensive parts of a vehicle to repair, so always keep an eye out for the first signs of trouble. Getting it repaired by your closest body shop in Orange right away will save you hundreds of dollars down the road. Here are five signs that your car’s transmission may be failing.

#1. Unusual Noises

One of the easiest signs to identify is the sudden presence of unusual noises. If your car is making noises that it doesn’t normally make, that’s never a good sign. Pay attention to whether your transmission is making a whining, buzzing, humming, or clunking sound. If you do hear any of these noises, make sure to bring it in right away so a trained mechanic can identify the source of the problem and see if you need auto transmission repair.

#2. Delayed Response

Your transmission was designed to allow you to switch gears instantaneously and seamlessly. You normally can’t feel when you shift gears, especially with an automatic transmission. If you are suddenly experiencing a delayed response from your transmission when trying to shift gears and accelerate, this could be a sign that your transmission is in trouble. Bring your car in for a checkup to make sure that everything is in working order.

#3. Burning Smell

The smell of burning coming from your vehicle is always cause for concern. While there are numerous causes for this, one common cause is the overheating of the transmission fluid. While this isn’t an emergency situation, it is strongly recommended that you have your vehicle inspected as soon as possible to fix it and prevent any further problems.

#4. Leaking Fluid

Your transmission is a sealed unit, and it should never leak if it’s functioning properly. If you’re experiencing some sort of leak from underneath your car, lay down a piece of cardboard beneath your car when it’s parked to determine if the leak is active and where it’s coming from. If the fluid ranges in color from bright red to dark brown, you need to have your transmission inspected and potentially repaired. Be sure to let your mechanic know where the location of the leak is in relation to your car and what color the fluid appears.

#5. Rough Shifting

When you shift gears, you should not be able to feel or hear when it’s happening, especially with an automatic transmission. If you can sense a grinding or shifting, be sure to take your vehicle into a professional so they can diagnose the issue. For a manual transmission, this rough shifting can mean that the clutch is worn out or that one of the transmission’s synchronizers is damaged. For an automatic transmission, this rough shifting could have several causes, and it’s always best to allow a certified mechanic to diagnose and repair the issue.

The transmission is a vital part of your car, and a failing transmission could be dangerous as well as inconvenient. If you notice any of these signs while driving your car, take precautions right away and bring your vehicle into a trusted professional for diagnosis. Here at CityWide Auto Care in Orange, we perform routine auto transmission repairs and flushes as well as more extensive damage repairs. We are a family owned and operated facility that has proudly served the Orange County area for over 25 years. We have cutting-edge diagnostic tools and technicians with years of experience and training, so you can rest assured that you are receiving the best quality repairs possible alongside unparalleled customer service. To make an appointment today, call us at (714) 633-4211.


3 Signs Your Auto Air Conditioning Needs to be Repaired

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When the weather heats up in Orange for summer, the last thing you want is for your car’s air conditioning to give out. Enduring a hot car in the Southern California summer can be insufferable, so it’s essential to know the warning signs of a malfunctioning AC system so you can have it repaired before it stops working entirely. Here are three significant signs that your auto air conditioning needs to be repaired.

Weak Airflow

If you have noticed that your car’s airflow is weaker than usual, or if it has ceased to blow air altogether, it’s time to take in your vehicle for repairs. Inadequate airflow means that air is having trouble reaching your air vents. This could be caused by several factors, including accumulated mold in the evaporator core, a loose blower hose, a broken ventilation fan, or open seals. It could also be a problem with the dashboard control switch itself. To find the root of the problem, allow an auto AC repair expert to assess your vehicle so that they can accurately diagnose and repair the issue.

Warm Air

One of the most common signs of a malfunctioning AC system is your vents only blowing hot air. If you have your temperature control turned as low as it will go and you still only receive warm blasts of air, you likely have leaking refrigerant or a broken part. Your AC repair professional will look for a clogged expansion tube, clogged refrigerant charging hose, broken compressor, broken blower motor, damaged evaporator, or a failed fuse if your refrigerant is not the issue. Even if low refrigerant levels are the problem, you are required to bring your car into an AC repair professional to fix it. It is illegal to handle refrigerant yourself since the most common refrigerant is Freon, which is known to damage the ozone layer. The EPA requires that auto AC repair shops are licensed to show that they can safely dispose of Freon, so never service your refrigerant or attempt to repair AC problems yourself.

Unusual Noise or Odor

If your car’s air conditioning has been emitting loud noises or foul odors when you turn it on, these could be warning signs of significant problems that require servicing. From bacteria buildup to broken compressor belts, the range of possible issues is vast. If you notice either of these warning signs, bring your car into CityWide Auto for an AC repair to locate the exact source of the problem. Citywide Auto uses state-of-the-art diagnostic tools that quickly and accurately diagnose automotive issues in the most cost-effective manner possible.

If you notice any of these signs or others that cause you to fear that your car’s air conditioning may be malfunctioning, be sure to call CityWide Auto as we are the AC repair experts that can keep you cool and comfortable throughout your summer travels. Citywide Auto in Orange is a family owned and operated full-service automotive maintenance and repair facility that has proudly serviced the Orange County area since 2002. We can inspect your auto air conditioning system and diagnose any problems quickly and thoroughly. Our ASE-certified technicians all use cutting-edge diagnostic tools so you can be sure that you’re receiving the highest quality repairs for your car’s troubles. To speak to a member of our team about our AC repair or transmission repair services, give us a call at (714) 633-4211 or stop by our location in Orange.