Just like any mechanical component, automatic transmissions also give trouble. Delayed engagement is a common auto transmission problem. This problem occurs when there is a long delay from the moment you move your gear into drive to the moment your transmission engages and is most obvious during your first morning drive. Here are some strategies to tackle your delayed engagement problem.
Avoid Revving The Engine
While extreme temperatures are usually the culprits, delayed engagement in automatic transmissions can occur at any time. When delayed engagement occurs, your car's bands and clutches will not operate immediately. Most people don't realise this problem and tend to rev on their engine harder to get the car to move. This could end up doing more damage to your car because increased speed in your engine will produce friction that can damage the bands and clutches. Avoid revving your car's engine when you notice delayed engagement and allow the transmission to properly engage to prevent it from needless harm.
Check Fluid Levels
Delayed engagement could also occur when internal seals wear out over time or become hard because of infrequent replacement of transmission fluid. To fix this problem, you will need to get the fluid levels checked. Make sure you check your owner's manual for establishing correct fluid levels and filling procedure because this will vary with different car manufacturers. If you're planning to change your own transmission fluid, make sure you have the right type for your specific car model. The wrong transmission fluid could lead to issues with shifting or with the torque converter clutch, which could cause your transmission to fail completely. Keep in mind that some models don't allow you to check fluid levels, so it's best to get the expert advice of an auto mechanic that specialises in fixing automatic and manual transmissions.
Check Your Transmission Filters
Clogged transmission filters could also cause the problem of delayed engagement in automatic transmissions. If your car's transmission filter has never been replaced, you may need to do so immediately. Be sure to get your auto mechanic to do this as soon as possible to prevent more serious problems in your transmission. You may also want to check the pump. If the pump doesn't maintain proper fluid pressure, then the complex hydraulic system won't function correctly and may cause delayed engagement.
Follow these strategies to tackle the problem of delayed engagement in automatic transmissions.
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