Five Signs of a Transmission Solenoid Problem and What to Do Next

Visit Your Local Auto Repair Shop When the Check Engine Light Comes On

Most manual transmissions don’t have a transmission solenoid. However, automatic transmissions rely on them to facilitate gear changes. So, why should you care about a transmission solenoid? If you want a smooth, hassle-free ride without the problems of a costly transmission repair, then this blog is for you. Here at Dave’s Valley Auto Clinic, we like to educate the drivers of Auburn, Washington, so you can keep your vehicle running at optimal performance and avoid transmission repairs. Here’s what you need to know.

What Is a Transmission Solenoid and What Does It Do?

A transmission solenoid is an electro-hydraulic valve that controls one or more gears, depending on the vehicle. It controls the flow of transmission fluid using electric signals to open or close it. Speed sensors inside the engine monitor many things, including when a gear change occurs. Ultimately the amount of transmission fluid is regulated, allowing for a smooth transmission between gears as you accelerate.

Five Warning Signs of Failing Transmission Solenoids

Here’s the good news, typically a solenoid that is failing is not an emergency transmission repair. However, the sooner you can bring your vehicle into Dave’s Valley Auto Clinic, you have a better chance of avoiding bigger transmission problems in the future. What are the signs a solenoid may require repair and service? Here are five:

1. Delayed or hard shifting gears: If you notice your car taking a bit longer to shift gears, it could mean dirty transmission fluid is causing the solenoid to stay stuck open or closed.
2. Transmission gets stuck in neutral: If your car doesn’t shift into first gear, this could also be due to dirty transmission fluid. The solenoid may be stuck open or closed.
3. Unable to downshift and/or car revs when braking: Dirty transmission fluid can once again be the culprit. If the solenoid is stuck, it will not react to signals from the ECU or TCM, telling it you’re slowing down.
4. Check engine light comes on: An illuminated check engine light should always be a sign it’s time to visit a repair shop. This light can be a warning sign for many things, including the need for transmission services.
5. Car goes into limp mode: Limp mode is meant to protect your engine. Usually, the transmission will not shift over third gear. Engine power will be limited as well as gears, so you will notice a change in how your car drives. A failing solenoid can be the cause of this.

Time For Transmission Repair

At the first sign of trouble, call the expert team at Dave’s Valley Auto Clinic. We don’t expect you to diagnose the problem yourself. That’s why we’re here. Hopefully, the tips above will help alert you to potential problems so you can get ahead of a larger transmission repair. We’ve been helping motorists in Auburn, Washington, with all their transmission repair and maintenance since 1991, and it would be our pleasure to assist you.