Why Is My Transmission Slipping? Signs, Causes, and What to Do

If your car feels like it’s hesitating, revving unusually, or suddenly losing power while shifting gears, you may be dealing with a slipping transmission. If you’ve been searching why is my transmission slipping, it’s important to act fast — transmission problems don’t go away on their own, and early repairs are far less expensive than total replacements.

In this blog, we’ll cover the most common symptoms, what might be causing them, and how Round Rock Auto Center can help prevent a small issue from turning into a costly breakdown.

Common Signs Your Transmission Is Slipping

Transmission slipping can feel different depending on your vehicle, but common warning signs include:

• Engine revs during gear shifts without increased speed

• Delayed acceleration or jerky shifts

• Burning smell coming from under the hood

• Transmission warning light or check engine light

• Difficulty switching between gears

If you’re experiencing any of these, visit Round Rock Auto Center for a transmission inspection before it gets worse.

Low or Contaminated Transmission Fluid

The most common cause of slipping is low or dirty transmission fluid. This fluid lubricates moving parts and maintains hydraulic pressure needed for proper gear shifting.

Watch for:

• Red or dark brown fluid under your car

• Fluid smells burnt or looks gritty

• You haven’t had a transmission fluid service in 30,000–60,000 miles

We’ll check your fluid levels, quality, and recommend a flush or top-off if needed.

Worn Clutch or Bands (Automatic & Manual)

In both manual and automatic transmissions, internal clutches and bands are responsible for engaging gears. Over time, they can wear down and start slipping — especially in high-mileage vehicles.

Symptoms:

• Revving but no acceleration

• Gear slipping during uphill driving

• Noises during shifting

Our techs can inspect and rebuild worn components or recommend clutch replacement if needed.

Why Is My Transmission Slipping? Signs, Causes, and What to Do

Faulty Shift Solenoids or Sensors

Modern transmissions rely on electronic solenoids and sensors to manage gear changes. If one fails, it can cause irregular shifts, slippage, or failure to engage certain gears.

Look out for:

• Hard shifts

• Inconsistent gear behavior

• Trouble codes after a diagnostic scan

We use advanced diagnostic tools at Round Rock Auto Center to identify faulty solenoids quickly and accurately.

Transmission Overheating

Excessive heat can break down fluid and damage internal parts, leading to slipping and total transmission failure.

Signs of overheating:

• Transmission warning light

• Burning smell

• Sluggish performance after extended driving

Cooling system issues can also impact transmission health. We’ll check both your radiator and transmission cooler during service.

Final Thoughts

Still asking why is my transmission slipping? Whether it’s a fluid issue, worn component, or sensor failure, this is one problem you don’t want to ignore. Transmission repairs are much more affordable when caught early — and we’re here to help.

At Round Rock Auto Center, we offer expert diagnostics, transmission flushes, rebuilds, and repairs to get your vehicle shifting smoothly again.

Don’t wait until you’re stuck in neutral — schedule a transmission check today and drive with peace of mind.