Signs of a failing shift solenoid These solenoids operate submerged in transmission fluid and fail primarily from repeated hot-and-cold cycling in this harsh environment. Mechanical failures can also occur. Shift solenoids will also just wear out over time, but getting your transmission serviced at the recommended intervals listed in your owner’s manual can help...

Most vehicles with all-wheel drive or four-wheel drive have a transfer case. The transfer case, located adjacent to the transmission, takes the power from the engine and distributes it to the front and rear wheels, so that you get better traction when you need it. This can include the following driving...

The automatic transmission in your car is responsible for transmitting the engine’s power to the wheels, making them turn. It does this by “automatically” choosing the correct gear ratio, based on your driving. But to do this effectively, it needs lubrication — transmission fluid, to be exact. What is automatic transmission fluid?...

A faulty clutch can cause a number of problems. These are some of the most common: Clutch slippage: This is an increase in engine speed without an increase in vehicle speed. It typically happens when the clutch pedal is released after a gear change. Chatter or grabbing: Clutch chatter or grabbing is...

Automatic transmissions rely on a pump to create internal fluid flow and pressure. The pump, built into the front of the transmission, is driven by the torque converter when the engine is running. When the pump turns, it creates a vacuum that pulls fluid from the pan through the filter. Then the pump pressurizes...

Signs of a failing torque converter A faulty torque converter can lead to a wide range of performance problems. Here are some of the more common symptoms you might notice if yours is failing. Your check engine light is on: The car’s computer monitors and controls the operation of the torque...