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What does it mean when the check transmission light comes on?

By William Brown |

What does it mean when the check transmission light comes on?

There may be an issue with a transmission temperature sender if the light comes on, or flashes just before the vehicle has warmed up to temperature. If the light sometimes turns on and the off, or comes on only when hitting bumps while driving, it may indicate a loose transmission wiring connection or a bare wire.

What do you do when your check transmission light comes on?

Turn off the engine and wait for a couple of minutes. Then pull out the dipstick for the transmission to check the oil level. If the oil is half way up the dipstick the transmission fluid is likely not the problem. But, in any case, you still should get your vehicle towed.

When does the check transmission light come on?

As of 2012, most new vehicles have a warning light that lets you know of transmission problems before they become a major expense.

What does a check engine light tell you?

Have the vehicle checked for trouble codes to isolate the problem. A check engine light is not dedicated to the engine only. A check engine light can also tell you that you have problems with the transmission including overheating, solenoid problems, speed sensors, slipping transmission and many other problems.

Why do I not have a transmission warning light?

Other problems, such as harsh or erratic shifting, not shifting from first gear automatically or transmission fluid that appears dark or smells burnt are problems that do not require a transmission warning light to tell you that there is a problem.

Is there a dipstick to check the transmission?

Some vehicles have a sealed transmission that cannot be checked by the owner, but some have a dipstick — much like the one used to check engine oil level — so that you can check the transmission fluid level when required.

As of 2012, most new vehicles have a warning light that lets you know of transmission problems before they become a major expense.

Some vehicles have a sealed transmission that cannot be checked by the owner, but some have a dipstick — much like the one used to check engine oil level — so that you can check the transmission fluid level when required.

What causes the Check Engine light to come on?

Many are related to the transmission. Your mechanic can perform a computer analysis that will reveal the problems that can be causing the Check Engine Light to come on in the form of alphanumeric codes known as P codes. The following are among the most common P codes: Your transmission is overheating.

Other problems, such as harsh or erratic shifting, not shifting from first gear automatically or transmission fluid that appears dark or smells burnt are problems that do not require a transmission warning light to tell you that there is a problem.