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Transmission Slipping: Signs, Causes and What to Check

Slipping means the engine speed goes up but the car does not speed up to match. Low or worn-out fluid is the most common and cheapest cause, so start there before assuming the worst.

Stay safe first

  • A slipping transmission can overheat and fail quickly. Limit driving and avoid towing or hard acceleration until it is checked.
  • If the car will not move, or is stuck in one gear (limp mode), avoid driving it and get it inspected.

Revs climb but the car barely speeds up

Likely causes

  • Low transmission fluid from a leak
  • Burnt or worn-out fluid
  • Worn clutches inside the transmission

What to check

  1. Check the fluid level and condition using your owner's manual. Many cars need the engine running and warm for an accurate reading. Some newer cars have no dipstick.
  2. Dark fluid or a burnt smell is a bad sign. Red or pink and clean is better.
  3. If the fluid is low, find the leak before simply topping it off.

Delay or a thump when shifting into Drive or Reverse

Likely causes

  • Low fluid or the wrong fluid
  • Worn internal seals
  • Failing transmission mount

What to check

  1. Note how many seconds pass between moving the shifter and the car engaging. A longer delay when cold that improves when warm is a useful clue.
  2. Check the fluid first.

Slipping with a check engine light or P0700

Likely causes

  • Shift solenoid or sensor failure
  • Internal transmission fault

What to check

  1. P0700 means the transmission computer has logged a fault. Get the more specific code stored with it.
  2. Many cheap code readers only read engine codes, so you may need a scanner that reads the transmission module.

Narrow it down for your vehicle

The same symptom can have different likely causes depending on your year, make, model and engine. Describe what you are seeing and CaliperAI will help narrow down the likely causes for your vehicle.

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Related guides

General information about this symptom, not a diagnosis of your specific vehicle. Safety-critical work such as brakes, fuel and airbags is best left to a qualified mechanic.