Atlas Transmission Blog
What are the warning signs of low transmission fluid?
Atlas Transmission • 8 February 2025
Your car's transmission fluid plays a crucial role in keeping the transmission system operating smoothly. It lubricates moving parts, prevents overheating, and enables seamless gear changes. When transmission fluid levels are low, it can lead to serious issues that may damage your vehicle if not addressed. At Atlas Transmission, we can expertly handle issues related to transmission fluid. Here are five signs that your car might be running low on transmission fluid.
Delayed Gear Engagement
One of the earliest signs of low transmission fluid is a noticeable delay when shifting gears. You might experience a lag between moving the gear selector and the transmission engaging. This delay can occur because the transmission lacks the hydraulic pressure it needs to operate efficiently. Ignoring this issue can lead to more severe transmission problems.
Slipping Gears
When transmission fluid levels are too low, the transmission may struggle to maintain the correct gear. This can cause the car to slip out of gear unexpectedly or fail to stay in gear while driving. Slipping gears can be unsafe, and are a sign that the transmission isn’t receiving the necessary lubrication and pressure to function properly.
Overheating Transmission
Transmission fluid helps to regulate the temperature of your transmission system by reducing friction and cooling its components. Low fluid levels can cause the transmission to overheat, leading to burning smells and reduced performance. An overheating transmission is a serious issue that can result in expensive repairs if not addressed promptly.
Noises from the Transmission
Unusual noises coming from the transmission—such as grinding, whining, or clunking sounds—can indicate that the fluid level is too low. These sounds often occur because the internal components of the transmission aren’t adequately lubricated, causing increased friction and wear.
Transmission Fluid Leaks
Visible fluid leaks are a clear sign that your transmission may be losing fluid. Transmission fluid is typically red or pink in color, but it can darken if it’s contaminated. If you notice puddles of fluid under your car, it’s essential to have the leak repaired and the fluid level restored. Driving with a leaking transmission can quickly lead to further damage.
Transmission Service in Tucson, AZ
When you need
transmission service in Tucson and the surrounding area, contact Atlas Transmission at
520-641-2026. At our nearby transmission shop, we can expertly handle your vehicle’s transmission needs. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!
by Atlas Transmission
•
8 March 2025
At Atlas Transmission, it’s our mission to earn our customers’ complete satisfaction by doing exceptional transmission work at fair prices. No matter how big or small the job, our local transmission mechanics will work meticulously to complete the work to the highest standards. And we appreciate it when our customers offer feedback about their experiences with us. Here’s a look at some of our recent customer reviews. “I am beyond happy with the experience I had at Atlas Transmission. Although I got the devastating news my transmission was shot, everyone at Atlas was right there to help and guide me through the process. From start to finish they made it simple. My vehicle was towed in, they evaluated it the same day and diagnosed it. They started working on it after my approval and completed it within 3 days!!!! The professionalism, customer service, and quality of work was superb. I highly recommend them. Thank you for making an unfortunate situation as positive as possible. I am very happy with how well my truck is running! Feels like its new…” — Leah S. “I was very impressed and thankful with work and customer service. The owner Tony went above and beyond to make sure my 2500 Dodge was taken care of!!!! Great work and good people...Highly recommend them.” — George F. “Recently having moved from Texas, finding a reliable, trustworthy shop to work on my 69 Chevelle was a gamble. I came to Atlas Transmission and met Tony. I explained to Tony that after having installed new 355 gears, positraction, a new stage 2 700R4, and a brand new top end w EFI, I could not get my car to burn out! He got in the car with me, I told him to drive it like it was his. In minutes he said, “I know what you need.” A new torque converter that allowed my car to reach and optimize its power band. Fair pricing with excellent quality work. Tony’s team found an issue with my distributor cap and quickly repaired it as well. My build is finally done and running as intended. The car now lights em’ up on demand. Tony and team at Atlas Transmission are great people that will guide you to get the repair you need with excellent service. Thank you for putting the finishing touch on my car.” — Marco V. “Good shop with friendly staff. Made the ol' work truck run good as new with the transmission rebuild. Highly recommend.” — Ben T. “I had a transmission upgrade for towing a 14000 lb 5th wheel RV. 2017 Ram diesel 2500 tradesman. After a year I couldn't be more pleased. Transmission temperature never got above 160 over mountains, steep grades and stop and go traffic.” — Ellen W. Transmission Repair in Tucson, AZ When you need transmission repair in Tucson and the surrounding area, contact Atlas Transmission at 520-641-2026 . At our nearby transmission shop, we can expertly handle your vehicle’s transmission needs. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!
by Atlas Transmission
•
6 January 2025
Your vehicle’s transmission is essential for transferring power from the engine to the wheels. And proper maintenance is key to extending the life of your transmission and avoiding costly repairs. At Atlas Transmission, we provide expert transmission service in the greater Tucson area. Here are four tips to help you keep your transmission in healthy condition. Schedule Regular Transmission Fluid Checks and Changes Transmission fluid is vital for lubricating the moving parts, cooling the system, and enabling seamless gear shifts. But as the miles add up, the fluid can become contaminated or lose its effectiveness, putting your transmission at risk. Regularly checking the fluid level and replacing it according to your manufacturer’s recommendations is a simple and effective way to prevent damage. Avoid Overloading Your Vehicle Excessive weight puts additional strain on your transmission, especially in vehicles not designed for heavy hauling. Towing beyond your vehicle’s capacity or consistently overloading it can cause overheating and increased wear on transmission components. Stick to the recommended weight limits in your owner’s manual to protect your transmission from unnecessary stress. Proper Driving Techniques Driving habits have a significant impact on the health of your transmission. Avoid sudden starts, aggressive acceleration, and abrupt stops, as these can strain the transmission system. Also, if your vehicle has a manual transmission, make sure you’re shifting gears smoothly and not riding the clutch. Practicing gentle driving helps preserve your transmission. Address Signs of Transmission Trouble Immediately Ignoring transmission warning signs—such as slipping gears, delayed shifting, or unusual noises—can lead to more severe problems. If you notice anything out of the ordinary, it’s important to have your vehicle inspected by a professional mechanic as soon as possible. Catching and repairing minor issues early can save you from more extensive and expensive repairs in the future. Transmission Service in Tucson, AZ When you need transmission service in Tucson and the surrounding area, contact Atlas Transmission at 520-641-2026 . At our nearby transmission shop, we can expertly handle your vehicle’s transmission needs. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!
by Atlas Transmission
•
3 December 2024
Transmission fluid plays a crucial role in the operation of your vehicle, keeping the transmission system lubricated and cool while ensuring smooth gear shifts. A transmission fluid leak can cause serious damage to the transmission. Catching a leak early is key to avoiding more expensive repairs and keeping your car in optimal condition. At Atlas Transmission, we provide expert transmission fluid leak repair in the greater Tucson area. Here are four signs that you may have a transmission fluid leak. Puddles of Reddish Fluid One of the most obvious signs of a transmission fluid leak is the presence of puddles of fluid underneath your vehicle. Transmission fluid is typically bright red when it's fresh, but as it ages, it can turn brown or dark. If you notice these fluid puddles/stains, it’s important to investigate further, as they can indicate a leak from the transmission. Slipping or Hesitating Gears If you’ve noticed your car hesitating or having difficulty shifting gears, it could be a sign that the transmission fluid is low due to a leak. Transmission fluid is essential for providing the necessary hydraulic pressure for smooth shifting. When fluid levels are low, you might experience a delay or difficulty in engaging gears, which is often referred to as "slipping." Grinding or Whining Noises A common sign of low transmission fluid caused by a leak is the sound of grinding or whining when the vehicle is in gear. When transmission fluid levels are low, the moving parts of the transmission rub against each other more harshly, which can cause friction and produce abnormal noises. If you hear these sounds when driving or shifting gears, it’s a sign that the transmission is not being properly lubricated, which could eventually lead to significant internal damage if not addressed promptly. Burning Smell or Overheating When transmission fluid is low due to a leak, your transmission can overheat. This happens because the fluid serves as a coolant for the transmission. Without enough fluid, the transmission components generate excessive heat, which can cause the fluid to burn. A burnt smell is a warning sign that the transmission is overheating and that there could be a fluid leak. Transmission Repair in Tucson, AZ When you need transmission repair in Tucson and the surrounding area, contact Atlas Transmission at 520-641-2026 . At our local transmission shop, we can expertly handle your vehicle’s transmission needs. Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment!
by Atlas Transmission
•
5 November 2024
Healthy transmission fluid plays a critical role in ensuring your vehicle’s transmission operates smoothly by lubricating components, reducing friction, and cooling the system. However, transmission fluid can become contaminated, leading to a variety of issues. At Atlas Transmission, we can expertly address issues related to transmission fluid. Here are four signs that your transmission fluid might be contaminated. Discolored Transmission Fluid Healthy transmission fluid is typically bright red or pink. But if the fluid becomes contaminated, it can darken to a brown or black color, indicating that it has degraded or absorbed dirt, metal particles, or other contaminants. If you check your transmission fluid and notice that it has turned dark, it’s a strong sign that the fluid is contaminated and may need to be replaced. Burnt Smell Another telltale sign of contaminated transmission fluid is a burnt smell. When transmission fluid becomes dirty, it can overheat and lose its ability to properly cool and lubricate the transmission system. This leads to a burning odor, which suggests that the fluid has broken down and is no longer effective. If you detect a burnt smell, it’s important to have the fluid inspected and potentially flushed to prevent further issues. Slipping Gears Contaminated transmission fluid can cause difficulty in maintaining consistent pressure within the transmission system, which can result in gear slippage. You might notice the engine revving without a corresponding increase in speed, or your vehicle may struggle to stay in the correct gear. If your transmission is slipping, it’s crucial to have the fluid checked as soon as possible. Delayed or Rough Shifting If your transmission fluid is dirty or filled with particles, you may experience rough or delayed shifting when changing gears. Contaminated fluid can make it harder for the transmission to smoothly engage gears, leading to jerking motions or a noticeable delay when shifting from one gear to another. Transmission Service in Tucson When you need transmission service in Tucson and the surrounding area, contact Atlas Transmission at 520-641-2026 . At our local transmission shop, we can expertly handle your vehicle’s transmission needs. Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment!
by Atlas Transmission
•
1 October 2024
Your vehicle’s transmission is one of its most critical components, enabling the engine’s power to be properly transferred to the wheels. When the transmission starts to malfunction, it can lead to serious driving issues or even total breakdowns. Catching early signs of transmission trouble can save you from more expensive repairs. At Atlas Transmission, we provide expert transmission repair in the greater Tucson area. Here are five common signs of a transmission problem. Slipping Gears If your vehicle unexpectedly changes gears while driving or struggles to stay in gear, this is a clear sign of transmission trouble. You might feel the car pop out of gear, or notice a sudden drop in power. Slipping gears can be dangerous as it can cause a loss of control while driving, so it’s important to address this issue right away. Delayed or Rough Shifting A healthy transmission should shift smoothly between gears. If you notice a delay when shifting gears—such as when going from park to drive—or if the shifting feels rough, this is a warning sign. Delayed or harsh shifting could indicate low transmission fluid, worn-out gears, or issues with the transmission control system. Unusual Noises Grinding, whining, and clunking noises are another common indication of transmission trouble. These noises may result from worn-out transmission parts, low transmission fluid, or more severe internal damage. Pay attention to any strange sounds, especially if they are new or occur more frequently when shifting. Transmission Fluid Leaks Transmission fluid is essential for lubricating the moving parts of your transmission and enabling smooth operation. If you notice reddish fluid leaking from your vehicle, it could be transmission fluid. Transmission fluid leaks can lead to major damage, as low fluid levels cause excessive friction and overheating within the transmission. Burning Smell A burning smell while driving could indicate that your transmission is overheating. This is often due to old or insufficient transmission fluid, which can’t properly cool or lubricate the system. If you detect a burning odor, have your vehicle inspected immediately. Transmission Repair in Tucson, AZ For transmission repair in Tucson and the surrounding area, contact Atlas Transmission at 520-641-2026 . At our local transmission shop, we can expertly handle your vehicle’s transmission needs. Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment!
by Atlas Transmission
•
5 September 2024
At Atlas Transmission, we aim to earn our customers’ trust and satisfaction by consistently providing top-quality service at fair rates. Whether you need to exchange your transmission fluid or if it’s time for a full-on transmission rebuild, our team will work diligently to get the job done right the first time. And we’re grateful when our customers offer feedback about the work that we did for them. Here’s a look at some of our latest customer reviews. “Great family-ran shop. Tony is a true car guy and will go out of his way to do what's best for the customer. This is the 3rd transmission we as a family have had built there. Th400 in a 68 Chevy big block, 700r4 in a 53 Chevy truck and now a 350 in a 56 Chevy truck, all top-notch. If you're looking for quality and a trustworthy shop, hit up Atlas Transmission.” — Corey B. “Excellent service and very knowledgeable. They presented themselves very trustworthy. I would highly recommend this shop for transmission work. Very pleased!” — Theresa R. “Never disappoints! Excellent quality transmissions that work.” — Jonathan R. “Brought in my 30 year old Explorer lifted offroader after the weak-from-the-factory transmission started slipping. Tony and team went above and beyond in restoring it, even coming up with a creative solution to an oil leak. Did have to bring it back for an issue, but Atlas honored their warranty completely and fixed it for good. Great service and honest, good people!” — Al T. “I recently had Atlas Transmission replace my 4R100 from my Excursion. They took the time needed to discuss options for the build, make strong suggestions regardless of how much additional money it could have made them, and continue to answer questions after install was complete. I've driven my truck for a few months and couldn't be more pleased. The Stage 2 transmission kit they've installed is phenomenal. Smooth power delivery, seamless shifting, and very strong pulling ability well over what was designed by a stock set-up. Having a knowledgeable transmission shop that is also LOCAL is great. Knowing I can go back with additional requests over time and know I'm getting service from people who put their name behind their work makes all the difference.” — Daniel C. Transmission Repair in Tucson, AZ When you need transmission repair in Tucson and the surrounding area, contact Atlas Transmission at 520-641-2026 . At our local transmission shop, we can expertly handle your vehicle’s transmission needs. Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment!
by Atlas Transmission
•
5 August 2024
Transmission fluid is crucial for the smooth operation of your vehicle's transmission. It serves multiple purposes, including lubrication, cooling, and the necessary pressure for gear shifts. Without adequate transmission fluid, your vehicle can suffer significant damage and performance issues. At Atlas Transmission, we can expertly address any issues related to transmission fluid. Here’s a look at five warning signs that your transmission fluid is too low. Delayed or Slipping Gears One of the most common signs of low transmission fluid is delayed or slipping gears. When the fluid level is insufficient, it can’t effectively create the hydraulic pressure needed to engage gears. This can result in delayed gear shifts, where the vehicle hesitates before moving into the next gear, or gear slippage, where the transmission unexpectedly shifts gears or falls out of gear. Unusual Noises Low transmission fluid can cause various unusual noises, including grinding, whining, or clunking sounds. These noises often occur when there isn't enough fluid to properly lubricate the moving parts within the transmission. The lack of lubrication increases friction, leading to these sounds. Transmission Overheating Transmission fluid not only lubricates but also helps cool the transmission. When the fluid level is low, the transmission can overheat, causing the fluid to burn and emit a burnt smell. Overheating can lead to significant damage and costly repairs if not addressed promptly. Rough Shifting Low transmission fluid can result in rough or harsh shifting between gears. This means you may feel a noticeable jerk when the transmission changes gears. Rough shifting occurs because the hydraulic pressure needed for smooth gear transitions is compromised. Transmission Fluid Leaks One of the most obvious signs of low transmission fluid is a visible leak. Transmission fluid is typically red or pinkish in color, and spotting a puddle of this fluid under your vehicle is a sign of a leak. Leaks can occur due to worn seals, gaskets, or damage to the transmission pan. If you notice a transmission fluid leak, it’s essential to have it inspected and repaired to prevent further fluid loss and potential transmission damage. Transmission Service in Tucson, AZ When you need transmission service in Tucson and the surrounding area, contact Atlas Transmission at 520-641-2026 . At our local transmission shop, we can expertly handle your vehicle’s transmission needs. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment !
by Atlas Transmission
•
7 July 2024
Transmission issues can become quite costly to take care of. So you’ll want to be sure you’re not engaging in poor driver habits that increase the risk of transmission problems. At Atlas Transmission, we provide expert transmission service in Tucson to help ensure that your car can get through the gears smoothly. Here’s a look at four bad habits that cause transmission issues. Ignoring Fluid Checks and Changes Transmission fluid plays a critical role in lubricating moving parts and cooling the transmission system. As the miles add up, this fluid can break down and become contaminated, losing its effectiveness. Ignoring regular checks and changes can lead to increased friction and heat within the transmission, potentially causing premature wear and even failure. Make sure to follow the manufacturer's recommendations for fluid changes to keep your transmission running smoothly. Riding the Clutch This bad habit is associated with manual transmission vehicles. Riding the clutch means keeping the clutch pedal partially engaged while driving, which causes unnecessary wear on clutch components. It’s important to practice proper clutch control by fully engaging or disengaging the clutch pedal when shifting gears, rather than keeping it in a halfway position. Overloading the Vehicle Every vehicle has a maximum load capacity specified by the manufacturer. Exceeding this capacity puts extra strain on the transmission, as it has to work harder to move the additional weight. This can lead to overheating and significant transmission issues. Be mindful of your vehicle's weight limits and avoid overloading it with heavy cargo or towing loads beyond its capacity. Shifting Gears Improperly Whether you drive a manual or automatic transmission, improper shifting techniques can put undue stress on the transmission components. In manual transmissions, shifting without fully depressing the clutch or forcing gears into place can cause components to wear prematurely. With automatic transmissions, abruptly shifting from drive to reverse (or vice versa) without coming to a complete stop can cause damage. Always shift gears smoothly and correctly to preserve your transmission's longevity. Transmission Service in Tucson, AZ When you need transmission service in Tucson and the surrounding area, contact Atlas Transmission at 520-641-2026 . At our nearby transmission shop, we can expertly handle your vehicle’s transmission needs. Feel free to give us a call today to make an appointment!
by Atlas Transmission
•
6 June 2024
Automatic transmissions are marvels of modern engineering, designed to shift gears smoothly and without effort. However, as the miles add up, they can develop problems.. Recognizing the early signs of trouble can save you from more expensive repairs and potentially dangerous driving situations. At Atlas Transmission, we provide expert automatic transmission repair in the greater Tucson area. Here’s a look at five symptoms of automatic transmission trouble. Slipping Gears One of the most common signs of transmission trouble is gear slippage. You might notice your car changing gears unexpectedly, or it may feel like it’s struggling to stay in gear. This can lead to a lack of acceleration or a sense of losing power. If you experience this, it's crucial to get your transmission checked immediately, as continued driving can cause further damage. Gear slippage often occurs due to issues with transmission fluid. Unusual Noises Automatic transmissions should operate quietly. If you start hearing whining, clunking, or humming noises, it's a clear indication that something is wrong. These noises can be caused by various issues, such as worn bearings, gear damage, or insufficient transmission fluid. Any unusual sounds should be investigated promptly to avoid more severe problems. Delayed or Rough Shifting If you notice delays when shifting from park to drive, or if the shifts feel rough and jerky, it’s a sign that your transmission needs attention. Delayed engagement can indicate low fluid levels, while rough shifts might point to worn or damaged components. Fluid Leaks Transmission fluid is vital for the proper operation and cooling of the transmission. If you see red, sweet-smelling fluid under your vehicle, it's a sign of a leak. Transmission fluid leaks can lead to low fluid levels, which in turn can cause overheating and significant damage. Burning Smell A burning smell coming from your vehicle should be brought to the mechanic’s attention ASAP. This odor often indicates that the transmission fluid is overheating, which can be due to low fluid levels, old fluid, or excessive friction within the transmission. Overheating can lead to severe internal damage, so this issue should be addressed without delay. Automatic Transmission Repair in Tucson When you need transmission repair in Tucson and the surrounding area, contact Atlas Transmission at 520-641-2026 . At our nearby transmission shop, we can expertly handle your vehicle’s transmission needs. Feel free to give us a call today to schedule an appointment !
by Atlas Transmission
•
6 May 2024
Transmission fluid is responsible for lubricating moving parts, cooling the transmission, and ensuring smooth gear shifts. Ignoring issues with transmission fluid can lead to costly repairs and even complete transmission failure. Understanding the signs of a problem with transmission fluid can help you address issues early and prevent major damage. At Atlas Transmission, we provide top-quality transmission service in Tucson. Our local transmission mechanics can expertly address fluid-related issues. Here are five signs of a transmission fluid issue. Burnt Odor If you notice a strong, burnt odor coming from your vehicle, it could indicate that the transmission fluid is overheating. Overheating can cause the fluid to break down, reducing its ability to lubricate and protect the transmission components. Leaking Fluid Transmission fluid is typically reddish-colored with a slightly sweet odor. If you notice puddles of fluid under your vehicle or signs of dripping near the transmission, it could indicate a leak. Leaking transmission fluid can lead to low fluid levels, which can cause overheating and damage to the transmission. Slipping Gears If your transmission is slipping gears or struggling to stay in gear, it could be a sign of low or contaminated transmission fluid. Transmission fluid provides hydraulic pressure to engage the gears properly. When the fluid level is low or the fluid is degraded, the transmission may struggle to maintain the necessary pressure, resulting in slipping gears or delayed engagement. Unusual Noises A healthy transmission should operate quietly, so if you notice any unusual noises coming from the transmission, it could indicate a problem. Whining, grinding, or clunking noises could arise as a result of low or contaminated transmission fluid. Pay attention to any unusual sounds and have your vehicle inspected if you suspect a problem. Discolored Fluid If you notice that the fluid is discolored, it could indicate contamination or overheating. Contaminated fluid can cause increased friction and wear on transmission components, leading to serious problems. You should regularly check the color and level of your transmission fluid and have it flushed and replaced according to the manufacturer's recommendations. Transmission Service in Tucson, AZ When you need transmission service in Tucson and the surrounding area, contact Atlas Transmission at 520-641-2026 . At our nearby transmission shop, we can expertly handle your vehicle’s transmission needs. Feel free to give us a call today or fillout our service rquest form to make an appointment!
Service Request
Please fill in the form below and we'll have a representative contact you.
Thank you for contacting us.
We will get back to you as soon as possible.
We will get back to you as soon as possible.
Oops, there was an error sending your message.
Please try again later.
Please try again later.
About Us
Since opening our transmission shop in 1983, we have been dedicated to ensuring our customers are fully satisfied with the products and services that they receive.
Areas Serviced
Tucson, Flowing Wells, Casa Adobes, Green Valley, Benson, Sierra Vista, Bisbee, Wilcox, Tombstone, Marana, Oro Valley, Sahuarita and Sierra Vista.
© 2025
All Rights Reserved | Atlas Transmission
