Could your car be having transmission problems ? The signs of a transmission issue are not always as clear as other kinds of car problems you may have. One way to determine if your transmission needs attention is to let your nose be your guide. Certain smells can indicate that your car needs to be evaluated in a transmission repair shop in Rockville, MD.

Transmission fluid can have a sweet smell when it leaks out of your car. If you notice a maple smell as your approach your vehicle, leaked transmission fluid may be the cause. On the other hand, if your transmission fluid is not leaking but rather overheating, you may experience a burning smell. The smell may occur while you are driving, or you may notice it outside of your car after you turn it off. Both of these issues indicate that a transmission specialist should check out your car to see if you need any repairs.

As with most parts of your car, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure when it comes to the transmission. One of the most basic things you can do to avoid transmission problems is to have the transmission fluid changed as recommended in your car’s owner’s manual. Because transmissions are one of the most complex parts of your car, only a transmission repair shop should change your fluid. Here are the answers to some FAQs you may have about avoiding transmission problems in Bethesda, MD by changing your transmission fluid.

What exactly is transmission fluid?

Transmission fluid plays multiple parts in the functioning of your transmission. It lubricates all of the parts of the system, works as a coolant to prevent your transmission from overheating, and helps to get power created by your engine to your transmission. Although transmission fluids all do the same thing, the kind of fluid your transmission needs is specific to the model. Your owner’s manual will tell you what kind of fluid needs to be used in your car.

What are the consequences of not changing my transmission fluid?

Over time, transmission fluid will break down and not perform properly. The fluid levels can also run low. If you don’t change your transmission fluid, your car may not shift and may become overheated. Typically, you won’t know that there is a problem with your fluid until damage has been done, so getting it changed at regular intervals is the best way to prevent any problems.

How often should I have my transmission fluid changed?

The intervals at which transmission fluid should be changed vary between car makes and models. Your owner’s manual will tell you what is right for your car. Your transmission specialist can also tell you if you need more regular changings based on the age of your car or how often you drive. Keep in mind that it is important to let a trained transmission specialist do the work for you to prevent any issues.