How to Tell When Your VW Needs a Transmission Repair

As reliable as Volkswagen gearboxes are, all modern transmissions can occasionally have trouble with the multitude of internal gears, clutches, valves, lines, bearings, converters, and computer chips. Keep an eye out for the following issues and if you ever notice something wrong with your gearbox, promptly visit your local VW dealership for transmission repair to keep your car running safely and smoothly. 

You Hear Gears Grinding 

Strained grinding sounds are never a good sign from a transmission. Grinding may be the sound of improperly lubricated gears struggling against each other if your transmission fluid is low. More seriously, grinding may indicate chipped gears inside the planetary gear system, a bad bearing, or a damaged clutch assembly. You’ll probably need a technician to diagnose the source of the sound. 

You Hear Clunking Noises

When transmission mounts begin to wear down or loosen, you may hear clunking sounds when you shift. Alternatively, clunking may be caused by a dislodged or broken spring, bearing, clutch, gear, or drum. Once again, low transmission fluid may also be the culprit. 

You Spot Leaking Transmission Fluid

The seals, hoses, and gaskets on a transmission can sometimes wear out or crack over time, allowing the transmission fluid to leak out. As transmission fluid is so vital to the functioning of your gearbox and car, it’s important to identify and repair a leak as soon as possible. Transmission fluid is a translucent red color that darkens as it ages, so keep an eye out for a reddish fluid leaking under your car. 

You Smell Something Burning

The heat and pressure inside a transmission steadily break down transmission fluid over time. As transmission fluid degrades, it begins to lose its lubricating property, putting your transmission at risk. When transmission fluid grows too old and degraded, it often starts to burn inside the gearbox, creating a burning smell that you might detect in the cabin above.

Your Gears Are Unresponsive

If your gears fail to respond or are slow to respond when you shift, have your transmission inspected immediately by a technician. Unresponsive gears may be caused by broken wiring, a defective valve, low fluid, or something else entirely. 

You Hear Sounds When in Neutral

When your engine’s running and the transmission is in neutral, there should be no unusual noise. If you hear any odd bumping or feel any shaking while in neutral, the transmission pump gears or a bearing might be malfunctioning, or you may have leaking fluid. 

Your VW Dealer Finds a Fault

It’s important to take your vehicle in for regular servicing with a trusted technician. While inspecting your vehicle, your technician’s practiced eye is likely to notice any emerging transmission trouble. They can then fix it before the problem worsens.

Visit Doral Volkswagen today to have your transmission examined and serviced by qualified professionals. We’re a full-service dealership and a one-stop local shop for Volkswagen cars, financing, and repairs.

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