Transmission Issues: Signs, Causes, and What to Do Next

When your transmission, the system that transfers engine power to your wheels. Also known as gearbox, it's one of the most critical—and expensive—parts in your car. If it starts acting up, you won’t just feel it—you’ll know it. Rough shifting, delayed gear changes, or a sudden loss of power aren’t just annoyances. They’re warnings that something inside your transmission is failing. And if you ignore them, you could end up with a total breakdown that costs more than your car is worth.

Transmission issues don’t happen overnight. They build up from small problems: low fluid, worn clutches, dirty filters, or overheating from heavy towing. A transmission fluid, the hydraulic fluid that lubricates and cools internal parts that’s dark, burnt, or low is often the first clue. You might not see it until you check the dipstick, but your car will tell you—through shuddering, slipping, or a warning light that doesn’t go away. And if you’ve been driving with a clutch kit, the set of parts that connects the engine to the transmission in manual cars that’s worn out, you’re putting extra stress on the transmission too. It’s not just about the clutch—it’s about how that wear spills over into the rest of the system.

What you hear matters just as much as what you feel. A whining noise in gear? That’s often worn bearings. A clunk when shifting? Could be broken mounts or damaged gears. A burning smell? That’s fluid breaking down from overheating. These aren’t vague symptoms—they’re specific signals pointing to real internal damage. And here’s the thing: most people wait too long. They think, "It’s just a little rough," until one day, the car won’t move at all. By then, you’re not looking at a simple fluid change—you’re looking at a rebuild or replacement.

That’s why knowing the early signs is the difference between a £300 repair and a £2,000 nightmare. The posts below cover exactly what you need to know: how to spot trouble before it’s too late, what causes most transmission failures, why some fixes are scams, and how to avoid being taken advantage of when you need help. Whether you drive a daily commuter or a boat with a marine transmission, the same rules apply. No fluff. No jargon. Just clear, practical info from people who’ve seen it all.