Cars with automatic transmissions are a preferred choice for many new car buyers because they have a simpler design and are much easier to operate when compared to their older manual cousins. These transmissions eliminate the need to shift gears or engage and disengage a clutch – you simply switch gears by pressing the buttons on the gear selector up or down!

Like many other components of your car, your transmission requires scheduled servicing to keep working properly. Transmission problems can, however, still arise even if you stick to your car maintenance schedule. It is, therefore, imperative to know when your car is experiencing transmission problems and requires repair service. A slipping transmission is an obvious sign of automatic transmission failure. It indicates that your car may require transmission repair. But what normally causes this problem?

Here is a look at some of the common causes of a slipping transmission. 

Worn transmission bands

The bands in an automatic transmission are what link the gears to allow for smooth and efficient switching of gears. When these bands become broken or worn, they can cause some parts of the transmission to keep rotating after the gear change.  This will result in a feeling of slipping as your engine revs up but your car loses speed. 

If your transmission bands are overly worn or broken, they will need to be replaced. If they are loose but still intact, they will simply need adjustment. 

Bad transmission solenoid

The solenoid is an electro-hydraulic valve that regulates the pressure of the fluid that flows throughout your transmission system. If this valve is defective, the optimal flow of transmission fluid won't be achieved. This can cause transmission slipping. 

The only way to remedy this problem is to replace the faulty valve so as to restore pressure readings to normal levels.

Issues with the transmission fluid

If your car is running low on transmission fluid or the existing fluid is burnt or ineffective, you may also experience transmission slipping. To ascertain if low fluid levels or ineffective fluid is the cause of the problem, it is best to check your transmission fluid level as well as the colour and consistency of the fluid.

The problem with trying to figure out the exact cause of a slipping transmission is that you will need to tear the transmission apart so as to look for worn or faulty parts. Thankfully, a qualified mechanic can do the hard work for you. They have the skills, experience and specialised tools required to make lighter work of the task. If you're having issues with your transmission, don't hesitate to take it in for automatic transmission repairs.