Healthy transmission fluid plays a vital role in keeping your vehicle's transmission operating smoothly. It lubricates, cools, and provides the necessary pressure for smooth shifting. However, transmission fluid can become contaminated with debris, dirt, and other harmful substances. If left unchecked, this can lead to costly damage. At Hirst Transmission Specialists, we can expertly handle your transmission fluid issues. Here are five signs that your transmission fluid may be contaminated. Unusual Shifting Behavior One of the common signs of contaminated transmission fluid is irregular or rough shifting. If you notice that your vehicle is hesitating, jerking, or shifting gears more abruptly than usual, it could be a sign that the fluid is no longer providing adequate lubrication. Contaminants in the fluid can cause friction within the transmission, leading to these issues. Strange Noises If you hear grinding, whining, or clunking noises when your vehicle shifts gears, it’s an indication that your transmission fluid might be contaminated. Clean transmission fluid allows gears to shift quietly and smoothly. When contaminants accumulate, they can cause excess wear and tear, resulting in unusual sounds as the transmission struggles to function correctly. Discolored Transmission Fluid Transmission fluid should have a red or pink hue. If you check your fluid and notice that it’s dark brown, black, or murky, this is a clear sign of contamination. Over time, dirt, metal particles, and other debris can accumulate in the fluid, leading to discoloration. Overheating Transmission Contaminated transmission fluid can lose its ability to effectively cool the transmission. If your transmission is overheating, you may notice a burning odor or decreased performance. Overheating can cause significant damage to your transmission and is often linked to contaminated fluid that can no longer dissipate heat as it should. Transmission Slipping Another sign of contaminated transmission fluid is transmission slipping, where the vehicle suddenly loses power and the engine revs without any corresponding increase in speed. This can happen when contaminants disrupt the fluid's ability to maintain hydraulic pressure. Without sufficient pressure, the transmission can’t engage gears properly, leading to this issue. Transmission Service in Pensacola, FL When you need transmission service in Pensacola and the surrounding area, contact Hirst Transmission Specialists at (850) 478-3395. Feel free to give us a call today to schedule an appointment!