Category Archives: Transmission Blog

Transmission Risks, Tropical Storm, Flood Damage

Tropical Storms & Floods: Transmission Risks in Rainy Season

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As the 2025 hurricane season looms, South Florida drivers should prepare for heavy rainfall and flash flooding. Flooding is a serious hazard – experts note it is “the second-deadliest weather hazard” after heat, and many flood-related deaths happen when drivers try to cross high water. Even a few inches of water can put you at risk. Just six inches of moving water can knock over an adult, and a foot can sweep away a small car. Beyond the risk to people, floodwater can seriously harm your vehicle, especially the transmission. 

How Floodwater Can Damage Your Transmission

Your transmission sits low, containing delicate parts and electronics. Rising floodwater can easily reach the transmission vents and seals. Causing damaging liquid to be sucked inside. Water mixes with the transmission fluid, turning it milky or gray. Even an ounce of water can cause trouble as the fluid loses its lubrication and cooling power. 

Transmission experts warn that excess moisture leads to “corrosion inside the transmission” and “fluid dilution”, which reduces lubrication and causes erratic shifting. In short, water contamination can ruin the fluid and cause gears or clutches to slip and shift roughly.

  • Fluid contamination: Contaminated fluid can not lubricate parts or transmit power properly, leading to rough or delayed shifting.
  • Mechanical corrosion: Water causes friction linings to swell and adhesives to dissolve. Metal parts begin to rust, and moisture may dissolve the clutch-plate glue and form what appears to be “white gummy masses,” likely increasing the need for a transmission rebuild.
  • Electrical damage: Modern transmissions use sensors and solenoids. Floodwater can short out wiring and modules. Water intrusion often causes electrical failures – dash lights, Anti-Lock Braking Systems, airbags may malfunction, and corroding wiring and connectors.
  • Need for overhaul: Sludge, rust, and mold can form if water sits too long. Among the worst cases, the transmission must be completely overhauled.

Signs of Water Intrusion

Watch for warning signs that floodwater has affected your transmission. Key indicators include:

  • Milky or discolored fluid. Normal transmission fluid is clear red/pink. If the fluid (visible on the dipstick or under the car) looks gray, milky, or cloudy, water has likely entered. Discolored fluid may also have particles or sludge.
  • Erratic or delayed shifting. If your car hesitates between gears, shifts late, slips out of gear, or shifts unpredictably, the transmission may have fluid contamination or water damage.
  • Unusual smells or noises. Contaminated fluid can overheat and give off a burning smell. You might hear grinding, whining, or clunking if parts aren’t lubricated properly.
  • Electronic warnings. Water exposure can trigger the check-engine light or transmission fault codes. If dashboard lights or limp-mode activate after flooding, have the car checked.
  • Visible water damage. Check for damp carpets or upholstery, a musty odor, or mud under the vehicle – these suggest the cabin and mechanical components got wet.
Transmission Ground Clearance For Flooding

Steps to Take After Transmission Flood Exposure

If you’ve driven through deep water or your area floods, follow these precautions:

  • Don’t start the engine. If your car stalled or was submerged, do NOT turn it on. Running the engine or transmission will circulate water throughout the system, causing more damage. Instead, tow the vehicle to a safe location or shop.
  • Check the fluid level and color. Once the car is safe, inspect the transmission fluid via the dipstick. If floodwater rises above the dipstick, assume the transmission is flooded. Even if the level is normal, look at the color. Milky or gray fluid means contamination.
  • Inspect other parts. Check for water in the engine bay, on the undercarriage, and in the cabin. Look under the car for water lines above the transmission housing – this helps estimate how deep the water got.
  • Get a professional diagnostic. Flood damage isn’t always obvious. Bring your car to Gold Coast Transmissions for a thorough inspection. We can test for leaks, pressure-test the transmission, scan for electronic faults, and ensure all components are OK.

Driving Safely in Storms and Flooded Roads

It’s best to avoid floodwater entirely. As AAA emphasizes, “never take a chance that a flooded road is safe to cross”. If you encounter standing water, turn around and find an alternate route. Remember these safety tips:

  • Avoid flooded areas. Even if a puddle looks shallow, don’t risk it. Six inches of moving water can sweep away a car’s traction. It takes just 12 inches to float most sedans. Stay away from low spots, rivers, drainage ditches, or closed roads. (Don’t ignore barricades or road closed signs.)
  • Move to higher ground. If a storm warning is out, try to park on elevated ground before flooding begins. Never park near culverts, dip sections, or flood-prone underpasses.
  • Drive slowly and defensively. In heavy rain, slow down, keep a safe distance from other vehicles, and avoid using cruise control. Turn on headlights, brake gently, and be alert for hydroplaning. If visibility is poor, pull over until rain eases.
  • If trapped or stalled, exit the vehicle. If your car stalls in rising water, abandon it and move to safety immediately. A stalled car can be swept away in seconds. Your life is more important than the vehicle.

Protect Your Transmission with Gold Coast Transmissions

Our certified technicians can check your transmission fluid and seals, test electrical systems, and advise you on any issues. If heavy rain or flooding does occur, we’re ready with repairs and towing: from full diagnostics to complete rebuilds. With South Florida’s rainy season ahead, remember that Gold Coast Transmissions is here to restore the heart of your car.

car dashboard, check engine light is on.

Do You Need Transmission Repair? Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore

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Your car’s transmission sends power from the engine to the wheels, getting your vehicle on the move. When it’s working, you barely notice it. That’s peace of mind that comes with consistent performance and getting where you go with no issues. Then somewhere along the road, failure comes along. Failing to get the car to start, becomes just the beginning of a long string of headaches. Headaches that can add up over time when ignoring the warning signs become prolonged. Here are the warning signs to watch for, so you can gauge the need for transmission repair.

animation of engine example, transmission repair concept

Strange Noises Have Found You 

Your car has ways of telling you when something’s wrong. Weird sounds are often the first clue. Here’s what to listen for:

  • Whining or Humming: This might mean your transmission fluid is low or there’s an issue with the transmission pump. According to the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE), low fluid can cause serious damage if left unchecked.
  • Clunking or Banging: Hearing these noises while shifting? That’s a major red flag. It could mean damaged internal parts.
  • Grinding: Gears grinding when you shift, especially in a manual? That points to worn synchronizers or other internal parts. This won’t fix itself.

Shifting into Trouble, Signs for Imminent  Transmission Repair

If your car fights you every time you try to shift, it’s a sign something’s up. Look out for these problems:

  • Delayed Shifting: A lag when moving from park to drive, or high revs before shifting, means trouble.
  • Slipping Gears: If your car slips out of gear or shifts for no reason, worn parts or low fluid levels could be the cause.
  • Refusing to Shift: If your car won’t go into gear at all, you’re dealing with a serious issue. Get it checked immediately by a professional to see if transmission repair is needed.

gears wearing down, image. transmission repair

Leaking Fluid

Transmission fluid keeps everything inside your transmission cool and lubricated. If it’s leaking, that’s a serious problem. Look for:

Reddish-Brown Fluid: Transmission fluid is usually bright red, but it darkens with age. If you see it under your car, call a professional.

Oily Puddles or Spots: If you spot these in your driveway, don’t ignore them. A leak can cause your transmission to overheat or fail completely.

Burning Smell

Smelling something burning, especially when accelerating or climbing hills? Your transmission fluid might be overheating. The Car Care Council says overheating is a leading cause of transmission failure. Pull over, let your car cool down, and call a professional specializing in transmission repair.

Shaking or Grinding While Driving

Feeling shaking or grinding while driving isn’t normal. Worn transmission parts or torque converter issues could be the cause. Have a technician check it before it worsens.

Check Engine Light

That little light on your dashboard isn’t just for engine issues—it can signal problems that warrant transmission repair, too. While various auto parts stores will scan it for free, you will need to bring it to a transmission shop for a full diagnosis.

Sluggish Performance or Poor Gas Mileage

When the transmission isn’t working efficiently, it puts extra strain on the engine, which can lead to worse gas mileage. If your car feels sluggish or you notice you’re filling up more often, you may need to have your transmission looked at. 

Don’t wait until your car won’t move. The longer you ignore transmission problems, the worse—and more expensive—they’ll get. If you’re in Davie or Fort Lauderdale, bring your car to GOLD COAST TRANSMISSIONS. Our experienced techs can diagnose the issue and get you back on the road fast.

Transmission Failure Prevention

According to the Federal Trade Commission’s consumer advice, following your car’s maintenance schedule and inspections can save you from costly repairs later. Make sure to:

  • Check your transmission fluid regularly.
  • Change the fluid as recommended in your owner’s manual.
  • Address small issues before they become big problems.

Transmission repair is too important (and too expensive) to ignore. Catching problems early can save you from more substantial repair costs down the line. If you notice any of the aforementioned signs we’ve talked about, don’t wait—come visit Gold Coast Transmissions at either of our Davie or Fort Lauderdale locations. 

Drive safe and keep your wheels, and engine, turning!