If you have a car that experiences transmission slips when turning left, you may feel a sudden loss of power, hesitation, or jerking when you navigate a left turn, especially at low speeds. This problem can be not only frustrating but also potentially dangerous, as it can impair your steering and control of the car. In this article, we will guide you through the steps to diagnose and fix transmission slips when turning left, organized under the following headings:
Understanding Transmission Slips
Before we dive into the causes and solutions of transmission slips, it’s helpful to know what they are and how they affect your car’s performance. Transmission slips occur when the transmission fails to engage or maintain a gear properly, causing the engine to rev up without a corresponding increase in speed or torque. This can happen due to various factors, such as worn out clutches, bands, or seals, low fluid level or pressure, damaged solenoids, or faulty sensors. Transmission slips can also occur when you turn the car, as the fluid may shift to one side and affect the hydraulic pressure or the torque converter’s lock-up mechanism.
Checking the Fluid Level and Condition
The first thing to check when your transmission slips when turning left is the fluid level and condition. Low or dirty transmission fluid can cause a host of problems, including slipping, overheating, and damage to the internal components. To check the fluid level, you need to locate the transmission dipstick, which is usually labeled and located near the engine. Insert the dipstick into the transmission fluid pan, pull it out, and observe the fluid level and color. If the fluid is below the recommended level or looks dark, dirty, or burnt, you may need to add or change the fluid. Make sure you use the recommended type and brand of fluid for your car’s make and model.
Inspecting the Transmission Components
If the fluid level and condition are not the problem, you may need to inspect the transmission components for wear or damage. The transmission is a complex system that comprises various parts that work together to control the gear ratio, speed, and torque of the car. These parts can wear out over time or get damaged due to excessive heat, debris, or impact.
Some of the common parts that can cause transmission slips when turning left are the torque converter, the bands, the clutch plates, and the solenoids. To inspect these parts, you may need to access the transmission housing, which can be a challenging and time-consuming task. You can use a jack or a lift to elevate the car and support it securely while you work underneath. You may also need to use special tools, such as a torque wrench, a snap-ring plier, or a scanner that can read the transmission codes.
Fixing the Transmission Slips
Once you have identified the specific component that causes the transmission slips when turning left, you can proceed to fix it. The fix can vary depending on the severity and type of the problem. For instance, if the fluid was low or dirty, you may need to flush the transmission, replace the filter, and add fresh fluid.
If the band or clutch plate is worn out, you may need to replace the entire transmission, which can be costly and time-consuming. If the solenoid is faulty, you may need to replace it or rewire the circuit. If the torque converter is damaged, you may need to replace it or rebuild it, which involves removing and disassembling the transmission housing.
What are symptoms of transmission slipping?
Symptoms of transmission slipping can vary depending on the severity and frequency of the slips, as well as the type of transmission and the driving conditions.
Some of the most common symptoms of transmission slipping include a loss of power or acceleration, especially when the car shifts gears or navigates inclines, jerking or shuddering when the car changes gears or speeds, a delay or hesitation in response when the gas pedal is pressed, unusual noises such as grinding, humming, or whining, a burning smell from the transmission, and a dashboard warning light or error message.
These symptoms can indicate various issues with the transmission, such as low fluid level, worn-out clutches, damaged seals or gaskets, faulty solenoids or sensors, or a worn-out torque converter. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s advisable to check the transmission fluid level and condition and consult a professional mechanic to diagnose and fix the problem.
Why is my transmission slipping when I turn left?
Transmission slipping when turning left can occur due to various reasons, but one of the most common causes is a low fluid level or pressure. When you turn left, the fluid in the transmission may shift to one side, causing a temporary loss of pressure or volume.
Conclusion
Transmission slips when turning left can be a sign of various problems with your car’s transmission system. By checking the fluid level and condition, inspecting the transmission components, and fixing the specific issue, you can restore the proper function and safety.
