Simply defined, a transmission is the torque-transmitting link between the engine and the wheels of your car. And, manual and automatic gearboxes are no longer the only option; many modern cars use continuously variable transmissions, but these, too, are subject to gearbox failure, even though they don't technically have gears. While we discuss the different types of transmission in-depth here, suffice it to say that since it is a hard-working component of your drivetrain, it can wear out. As such it is important to know how to spot the signs of a transmission problem.

While you'll almost certainly need the help of a professional mechanic to repair a transmission breakdown, picking up on the early signs of a failing transmission can help avoid a more serious issue down the line.

Early Signs of Transmission Problems and Failure

There are a number of warning signs of transmission trouble; so long as you are alert, you can get your vehicle checked out and fixed long before complete failure ruins your day. Here are the most common symptoms of transmission problems.

• Strange sounds: One of the most obvious symptoms of a bad transmission is a sudden change in your vehicle's soundtrack. Since this is something you get used to by hearing every day, even the slightest alteration should be noticeable. However, loud clunking or metallic whines, especially when shifting gears, is one of the most obvious warning signs.
• Burning smells: Another indication that something is seriously wrong is weird smells. In particular, you need to be on the lookout for the smell of something burning. A burning smell could indicate overheating transmission fluid.
• Noisiness in neutral: Your car should be almost completely silent when in neutral other than regular idling sounds, so clunking, bumping, grinding noises should raise a red flag. This may simply be the result of low engine fluids, but a problem with your gear teeth or bearings is not something you should risk overlooking.
• Check engine light: This little warning sign is there for a good reason, not just to supply mood lighting to your cabin. True, it seems to pop on for seemingly no reason at times, but remember, the boy who cried wolf was ultimately eaten because nobody took him seriously. Always give your car the benefit of the doubt, and if you need some guidance on what dashboard warning lights mean, you can read more here.
• Leaking fluids: Like the human body, a car has various essential fluids flowing through its systems. Obviously, when these are on the outside instead of the inside, something is wrong. Regular maintenance of things like the oil pump and various filters is essential to keeping your car running smoothly. Pertaining specifically to bad transmission symptoms, dark spots on your driveway beneath your car can be a sign of a leak in the system.
• Clutch drag: Only really an issue in manual vehicles, a dragging clutch is a clear sign of trouble. Too much slack in the clutch pedal can prevent the clutch disc from disengaging. This, in turn, makes it impossible to change gears. This normally coincides with a grinding sound.
• Not shifting smoothly: Even an automatic can run into problems when shifting gears. This can include delays, shaking and shuddering when shifting, or the system may be totally unresponsive. The onboard computer is responsible for these shifts, but it draws information from numerous sensors throughout the vehicle. This means that the problem might not be transmission-related, but it's still essential to look into it. Many of these symptoms of transmission failure can be attributed to the solenoid.

What to do About Transmission Problems

Many of the primary causes of transmission problems are related to your vehicle's fluids. Checking them and topping them up may correct the issue. There are also several transmission codes that may pop up from your onboard diagnostic system when it detects a problem. This can help you figure out exactly where the issue originated and how to fix it. If you aren't quite as hands-on as all that, you can always go to your local auto technician. Apart from finding and solving the problem, they can also advise you on what to be on the lookout for in the future.

Tips for Keeping Your Transmission Healthy

The only thing better than solving a problem is finding a way to avoid it completely. Here are some tips and tricks to follow if you want to know how to keep your transmission healthy:

• Routine car maintenance is the golden rule and sticking to the scheduled intervals for checking fluids
• Make sure you are using the correct transmission fluid for your vehicle and that you have enough by checking the dipstick
• Always come to a complete stop before you shift between drive and reverse
• Don't ride your brakes and use your parking brake instead of clutch control when idling
• Don't exceed your car's maximum towing capacity, and try not to tow in excessive heat
• Make sure your cooling system is functioning optimally
• Good driving behavior is always in the best interest of your car's health. Shift at the correct time, not too early or too late.