What is transmission slipping?
Your car's transmission automatically changes gears while you are accelerating or slowing down. When transmission slips, it does not remain in the desired gear. Instead, the engine will rev, but the car will not speed up as required.
Common symptoms of transmission slipping are:
- Engine revs but car creeps
- Sudden jerks or hesitation during acceleration
- Rough or slow gear changes
- Unusual noises from the transmission
- Dashboard warning lights
Common causes of automatic transmission slipping
There are several reasons why an automatic transmission may slip.
Low or dirty transmission fluid
Transmission fluid lubricates the gears, assists in transferring power, and also cools the system. Low fluid or dirty fluid can decrease hydraulic pressure, resulting in reduced traction and potential slipping.
Symptoms:
- Delay in gear shifting
- Revs without acceleration of the engine
- Foul-smelling or dark fluid
Repair:
- Monitor the transmission fluid level periodically
- Top up the fluid according to the manufacturer's recommendations
- Always employ the same type of fluid
Worn transmission bands
Transmission bands help keep the transmission in gear securely. They stretch, get worn out, or break over time, leading to slipping.
Symptoms:
- The car slips out of gear while accelerating
- Jerky movement when changing speed
- Delayed accelerator response when pressing the accelerator
Fix:
- A mechanic will adjust or replace worn-out bands
- Frequent servicing can extend their lifespan
Worn clutch plates (in automatic transmission)
Automatic transmissions utilise clutch packs to engage and retain gears. When the clutch plates wear out, they cannot retain the gear adequately, leading to slipping.
Symptoms:
- Burning odour from transmission
- Gear changes are becoming delayed or sluggish
Repair:
- Replacement of worn clutch plates
- Use of quality parts to avoid premature wear
Torque converter problems
The torque converter transmits power from the engine to the transmission. When defective or worn out, the transmission slips, particularly when under load or climbing a hill.
Symptoms:
- Shaking or vibration on acceleration
- Vehicle fights to move into gear
- Slow or rough shifting
Repair:
- Get the torque converter checked
- Repair or replace, as the case may be
Transmission solenoid issues
Solenoids regulate the fluid flow within the transmission to engage gears. When a solenoid is faulty, the transmission may not shift gears properly, leading to slipping.
Symptoms:
- Irregular gear shifting
- The car hesitates on acceleration
- The transmission warning light is on
Repair:
- Replace defective solenoids
- Make sure that the transmission control module operates correctly
Internal damage to the transmission
Worn or broken gears, bearings, or seals within the transmission are common causes of slipping. Internal wear typically results from overheating, low fluid, or neglectful maintenance.
Symptoms:
- Slipping in all gears continuously
- Loud whine or grinding sounds
- Transmission warning light
Fix:
- Professional maintenance is needed
- Transmission rebuild or replacement may be necessary
Driving habits and overloading
Aggressive driving, heavy hauling, or hard acceleration on a regular basis may cause unnecessary stress on the transmission. Over time, this may result in slipping and excessive wear.
Symptoms:
- Slipping when under heavy load or acceleration
- Fluid in transmission warms up rapidly
- Performance is slower
Repair:
- Smooth driving and do not overload
- Follow manufacturer guidelines for towing and load capacity
Faulty sensors or electronic issues
Modern automatic transmissions rely on sensors and the transmission control module (TCM) to manage gear changes. Faulty sensors, like the speed sensor or throttle position sensor, can cause slipping.
Symptoms:
- Transmission warning light
- Jerky or delayed gear changes
- Inconsistent performance
Fix:
- Scan the car with a diagnostic tool
- Replace faulty sensors
- Reset or reprogram the TCM if needed
Overheating transmission
Excessive heat can degrade transmission fluid and damage internal components, leading to slipping.
Symptoms:
- Burning smell from under the bonnet
- Slipping after long drives or heavy traffic
- Transmission warning light
Fix:
- Allow the transmission to cool before driving
- Replace burnt fluid
- Check for cooling system issues or radiator problems
Age and mileage
Even with proper care, transmissions wear out over time. High-mileage vehicles may experience slipping due to worn internal components.
Symptoms:
- Slipping becomes more frequent
- Gear changes feel rough
- Performance declines
Fix:
- Regular maintenance can slow wear
- In severe cases, a rebuild or replacement may be needed
How to check if the transmission is slipping
You can perform a few tests to determine transmission slipping:
- Check acceleration: Does the engine rev without accompanying acceleration?
- Check gear shifts: Gears slip, change late, or are rough.
- Check lights: Transmission or check engine lights will often come on.
- Check transmission fluid: Low, dirty, or burned fluid is a strong indicator.
- Check for noises: Whining, grinding, or shuddering often indicates internal problems.
If any of these signs are present, have your car inspected immediately. A slipping automatic transmission needs expert attention. Our ACKO Drive service centres run detailed diagnostics to detect internal faults or fluid issues. We restore smooth gear changes and protect your car’s transmission’s long-term health.
You can conveniently book a service slot online through the ACKO app or the ACKO Drive website. We offer free doorstep vehicle pic-up and drop-off, share a detailed diagnostic report, so that you know what is the issue with your car and we perform the repair accordingly.
Risks of ignoring a slipping transmission
Driving with a slipping transmission can lead to:
- Complete transmission failure
- Higher repair costs
- Reduced fuel efficiency
- Jerky or unsafe driving
- Risk of being stranded on the road
You must address slipping early to save money and prevent dangerous situations.
How to fix an automatic transmission slipping
Fixes depend on the cause:
Check and replace transmission fluid – ensure correct type and level
Replace worn-out clutch plates or bands – enhances gear holding
Repair or replace the torque converter – provides smooth power transfer
Repair or replace solenoid or sensor problems – retains proper gear control
Check and rebuild the transmission if needed – for internal damage
Always consult a professional mechanic familiar with automatic transmissions. Poor parts and improper fluid can exacerbate the issue.
How to prevent transmission slipping
Prevent slipping with proper care:
- Replace transmission fluid at the recommended mileage
- Avoid hard acceleration and aggressive driving
- Avoid overloading the vehicle and towing beyond capacity
- Has the transmission been kept cool, particularly in warm climates
- Maintain sensors and TCM on a regular basis
- Fix minor problems as soon as possible before they turn severe
Regular maintenance guarantees effortless, trustworthy gear shifting and prolongs transmission life.
Final words
Slipping automatic transmission is a serious condition that should never be taken lightly. Regardless of the reason, whether it's slipping, low fluid, worn clutch plates, faulty solenoids, or internal damage, slipping can compromise your car's safety, performance, and fuel efficiency.
Your car should be checked by a professional immediately if you experience any indication of slipping. Proper maintenance, defensive driving, and prompt repairs will keep your transmission smooth, trustworthy, and long-lasting.
Frequently asked questions
