The transmission system in your Volvo converts all of the power that your engine generates into motion, allowing your wheels to turn and your car to move. It is a crucial component of what makes your car move.

If you want your transmission system functioning properly, you must maintain it. This means paying attention to warning signs of breakdown and constantly checking for damage. Of course, half the battle is actually knowing when something is wrong. Below are some symptoms that your Volvo might exhibit if it is having some sort of transmission issue.

A Burning Scent

While you’re driving, if your Volvo starts to smell like something is burning, you might have a serious problem with your transmission system. This happens mostly because as your engine moves, it creates friction which generates a lot of heat. This is normally counteracted by lubricants, but if your transmission system is faulty, there could be something wrong with the lubrication of the moving parts of your Volvo’s engine.

This friction can cause your engine to overheat, which can cause irreparable harm to your transmission as well. It can cause buildup of sludge and debris, further compromising the health of your car’s transmission.

So, if you smell burning, you need to bring your car in for an inspection as soon as possible. Take your Volvo to an expert mechanic and have it inspected for transmission issues if you smell burning coming from your transmission.

Leaking Transmission Fluid

If you notice something leaking out of your car, no matter what fluid you suspect it could be, it is important to have this inspected as soon as possible. In many cases, it’s just condensation from your air conditioner, which is totally normal. However, it can be something more serious, such as oil or transmission fluid. These are both crucial fluids that keep your Volvo in working order.

If you suspect a visible leak is transmission fluid, check to see if the fluid is reddish-brown in color and slimy in consistency. If you do find this kind of fluid leaking out of your Volvo, the leak needs to be fixed as soon as possible. As a perk, it can be a relatively low-cost repair at this point. However, if you don’t tend to this problem, leaking transmission fluid can cause major damage to your transmission, which will be far more expensive.

It is not always the case that you can see the leak, so you should check your transmission fluid levels from time to time with the dipstick. It should remain the same level over time, since it does not decrease with use. Therefore, if your fluid is low in the reservoir, you more than likely have a leak!

You Hear Strange Noises

If your Volvo is making unusual noises such as rattling, clunking, or whirring, it could be the result of a faulty transmission system. If you drive automatic, which most people do these days, these noises could be caused by a deterioration of your automatic transmission fluid. Over time, the fluid doesn’t lubricate your transmission as well as it could before. Those moving parts can begin to rub together, which causes heat by friction. This heat can be damaging to your transmission, so it is important to pay attention in order to avoid this outcome.

Noises can either be a minor problem or an issue with a different part of the car, so it’s best to have it looked at by a professional mechanic who is familiar with Volvo systems and technology.

Rowlett Motorwerks Will Repair Your Transmission

If you’re noticing any of the above symptoms, or you’re starting to suspect that your transmission system needs repair or replacement, it is best to see a professional Volvo expert about these issues.

Your transmission is nothing to ignore, so have a professional take a look instead of opting to try to fix it yourself. If you live in or around Garland, Rockwall, Sachse, Wylie, or Rowlett, TX, come see us at Rowlett Motorwerks. We’ll have your transmission repaired or replaced quickly to get you back on the road and driving with confidence in your Volvo.