Why You Should Never Ignore Your Transmission Warning Light
Vehicles have evolved over the past decades. Many cars now have computer systems that assess the vehicle’s status and alert the user to any problems. However, reading the warning signs your car has given you can be difficult if you are not technically inclined. Hence, what exactly is a transmission warning light and what does it mean?
What is a Check Transmission Warning Light?
The transmission is the mechanical part of a vehicle also known as the gearbox. It controls and moves the power from the engine to the wheels proving speed and torque to the vehicle. There are two kinds of transmissions: automatic and manual. Manual transmissions or gearboxes require the driver to change gears on his or her own, while an automatic transmission does the gear changing by itself by relying on a torque converter.
The location and function of the transmission light depend on the model and make of the vehicle. For some vehicles, the transmission light may only turn on when the transmission is overheating, while others may indicate other issues with the transmission.
Because the transmission is the most expensive part of your car, a transmission warning light should never be ignored.
What Does the Transmission Light Mean?
The transmission warning light is an indication of trouble with the transmission and/or its components. There are several reasons why the transmission light could turn on, including anything from overheating to electronic control issues. The check transmission light could also indicate that your car needs a service. Identifying the root cause may be difficult and require professional assistance. Here are some of the reasons why a transmission warning light turns on.
The Reasons Why a Transmission Light Turns On
Overheating is the leading cause of transmission failure and should be taken seriously. The transmission should run at an optimal temperature of 175 degrees Fahrenheit. It begins to overheat at a temperature of 220 degrees or more. If the sensors detect an increase in temperature, the check transmission light turns on.
Additionally, overheating is the reason for damaged seals, solenoids, or gears. It also causes failed bearings, delayed clutch engagement, and slipping transmission bands. There are several reasons for overheating, including low transmission fluid and towing a heavy vehicle.
Automatic transmissions often make use of torque converters. They act as fluid coupling devices. Damaged converters can cause problems with the transmission over time leading to shuddering, slippage, and even contamination of the transmission, causing the check transmission light to turn on.
Transmission fluid serves to lubricate the moving parts of the device and prevents overheating. If transmission fluid levels are low, the warning light may turn on.
Several mechanical components make up a transmission. If any one of these parts becomes damaged, the check transmission light should turn on. A warning light could also serve as a control method, preventing the driver from putting the vehicle into "drive" without using the brake pedal.
Most automatic transmissions make use of a valve body. This valve body directs the flow of fluid to different parts of the transmission. Any problems with the valve body that prevents it from working correctly can trigger the check transmission light.
A computer unit or module that gets its information from sensors manages the transmission. It communicates with other modules over a data network. Electrical faults, problems with sensors, computer units, or the data network could trigger the warning light.
How to Prevent Damage to Your Transmission
Preventing damage to your transmission is critical for the longevity of your vehicle. To ensure that your transmission remains in optimum condition, ensure that it is serviced regularly. Never ignore the check transmission warning light.
Always have an inspection done by a professional whenever the transmission light turns on and check and change the fluid level regularly to prevent overheating and damage to mechanical parts. Fixing transmission problems early could save your transmission.
If you intend to use your vehicle for towing purposes, it is recommended that you have an additional transmission cooling system installed to prevent overheating.
Is It Safe to Continue Driving with the Transmission Light On?
The check transmission warning light, as we have already seen, should never be ignored. Continued use of the vehicle while this warning light is on could have potentially devastating effects, causing damage to moving parts and transmission failure, so you should never drive a car with the warning light on.
Final Thoughts
The check transmission light alerts the driver to any issues with the transmission. Several things such as valve body issues, electronic and computer problems, overheating, low transmission fluid, and several other issues could lead to the transmission light turning on. Be sure to have your vehicle assessed every time you notice a check transmission light to prevent any damage to the transmission.
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