There are many articles out there about the signs of a transmission failing. But many of these articles are geared toward manual transmissions. Automatic transmissions can fail just like manual transmissions can. However, the symptoms or signs that your automatic transmission may be failing are often slightly different compared to the signs that a manual transmission failing. Here are three of the signs that may indicate that your automatic transmission needs repair or may be failing. 

Your Car Is Hesitating or Failing to Engage Upon Shifting Gears

With manual transmissions, one of the tell-tale signs that your transmission is going out is that your car slips gears or won't shift. With automatic transmissions, this same issue can occur, but it is less common. Instead, most people experience hesitation when their car tries to shift. Your car may slightly hesitate or fail to engage and pick up speed as your car automatically shifts gears. Some people describe it as a slight pause, while other people say their car feels like it may stall. 

You Smell a Burning Scent When Your Vehicle Shifts or Changes Gears

Another sign that you may notice if your automatic transmission is beginning to fail is a burning scent as your car shifts gears. Your car may give off a burning scent for a number of different reasons, including engine problems. One of the ways to differentiate transmission burning and other burning is to really take the time to smell the scent. Many people describe burning transmission fluid as a sweet, yet burnt scent. If the burning smell has a sweetness to it, it is likely related to a transmission issue. 

You Notice Your Car Is Leaking Transmission Fluid

The final sign that your automatic transmission may be failing is a transmission fluid leak. Your car may alert you to the fact that your transmission fluid is low, or you may notice pink or brown transmission fluid leaking from your car. Once again, take note of the way the fluid smells, as this will help you differentiate transmission fluid from other fluids. Transmission fluid has a sweet scent to it that is very different from oil, gas, or coolant. 

If your vehicle is showing any of these signs, you should bring your car in to a transmission shop. They can work to diagnose the problem and then determine if transmission repair or transmission replacement is the best course of action, based on the age and condition of your transmission. It is recommended that you be on the lookout for these signs, as the earlier you catch transmission problems, the better. More damage can occur the longer transmission problems are left unattended to. Contact a transmission shop today to schedule an appointment to have your vehicle's transmission inspected.