Strange noises coming from your vehicle can be your first warning sign that something’s not right with the transmission. Learning how to identify them can help you avoid costly repairs and keep your vehicle running smoothly around Staunton, Stuarts Draft, and Waynesboro. Here are the transmission sounds to look out for:

• Grinding: In manual transmissions, it often means the clutch or synchronizers are worn. For automatics, damaged gears or a failing planetary gear set may be to blame.
• Whining: A persistent whining sound often points to low fluid levels, a worn torque converter, or contaminated fluid struggling to lubricate internal parts.
• Clunking: Sudden thumps during acceleration or shifting can signal loose transmission mounts, worn U-joints or CV joints, or internal component damage.
• Humming or Buzzing: This is often caused by worn bearings, faulty solenoids, or incorrect fluid levels.

If you’ve noticed any of these noises recently, it’s time to bring your vehicle to a trusted technician. Prompt attention could mean the difference between a minor repair and a complete transmission replacement.

Transmission issues can start small but escalate fast. According to Car and Driver, proactive maintenance and prompt repairs prevent expensive failures and preserve your vehicle’s value.* Keeping up with routine maintenance is one of the smartest investments you can make in your car’s long-term performance and reliability.

At our service department, we believe in addressing small noises now so they don’t become major problems later. Our trained technicians are here to help you spot concerns early, saving you time, money, and stress in the long run.