Freightliner Cascadia automatic transmission problems can be quite concerning.
As technology improves and moves forward, there are more and more non-stick shift trucks in the commercial industry. However, an automatic transmission proves to be a rather critical system that requires proper care and maintenance. This way, you can ensure a long lifespan for your vehicle.
It is also worth noting that automatic transmissions tend to cost more when a replacement is needed. This is more expensive than replacing an engine. With this in mind, you should pay close attention to the typical signs of problems to prevent the need for a costly repair.
Today, we’ll discuss the most common Freightliner Cascadia automatic transmission problems and what you can do about these.
Freightliner Cascadia Automatic Transmission Problems
Automatic transmissions are complex systems driven by a computer. With this in mind, it is best to be aware of some common symptoms of a problem before things take a turn to the worst. Here are among the signs of a Freightliner Cascadia automatic transmission problems to take note of so you can get these checked and avoid further damage and costly repairs.
1. Shaking or grinding in gear
When your automatic transmission operates smoothly, there should be no shaking or grinding whenever you shift to another gear. But when you switch gears and you notice some slipping or grinding, it means that problems are starting to occur in your transmission.
In case you experience mild grinding with every shift, it is best to have a specialist take a look at this issue. Otherwise, the problem may get worse over time, which can cost you more money to have it fixed.
2. Failure to respond or engage when in gear
If you put your vehicle into reverse or drive, yet there is a delay in the response, it may be presenting some issues with the transmission. There could be a problem with the fluid, which has protective properties. It may be possible that the fluid has gotten thick and the protective quality has degraded. This is why you should replace the transmission fluid when you notice such symptoms.
Additionally, you may start to notice a computer system issue. One thing to look into is by resetting the computer, which usually can solve this problem. Simply disconnect your battery for about 30 minutes to do a reset. However, if this does not do the job, you may want to contact a transmission mechanic to get your vehicle checked. Delaying the diagnosis and repair may eventually cost you thousands of dollars when things get even worse than it is now.
3. Whining, clunking, or humming sounds
Do you start to notice a clunking or humming noise under your car? If this is something you’ve never heard of before, then you may be having some transmission issue. Although this is most likely just a minor concern to start, it could get worse over time.
Sounds coming from your transmission are often due to the transmission fluid starting to degrade. As time goes by, this fluid fails to lubricate the components and mechanical gears in your vehicle, which is why friction starts to build up. This is what causes some damages to your automatic transmission system.
So, when you notice such sounds becoming more and more apparent, you need to have your automatic transmission checked. Check the transmission fluid first and make sure that you top it up when low. But if the problem persists, there may be other things happening that you are not aware of, which is why a specialist should be able to help you out.
4. Burning smell
No matter what happens, it is never normal to smell something burning when you drive your car. A burning odor means that there is an overheated fluid in the transmission. So, when the fluid is no longer doing its job of lubricating components, friction will occur, which then results in the parts breaking down. Eventually, debris will start to build up followed by sludge accumulation.
But it is always best to check the transmission fluid level to know if it is low. Also, be sure to use the right kind of transmission fluid that is suitable for your vehicle.
5. Slipping gears
Do you notice your gears are slipping or traction does not seem to be as good as it used to be? Not only is this a concerning problem but it is unsafe, as well. This can cause an accident, which is a big problem for you and other affected motorists on the road.
With this in mind, you must make it a point to get this problem fixed right away. The correct signal is not getting sent properly, which is why you may lose traction.
6. Low Transmission Fluid Level
It is best to observe the garage floor or driveway if there is some dirty or bright red fluid left in the area where you just parked your car. This could mean that your transmission fluid is leaking, which is why you may have had to top up more frequently than you used to.
Transmission fluid does not typically go low because of mileage or age, unlike with motor oil. Thus, if the level appears to be low, it means that there is a leak to be addressed sooner than later. Leaks can prevent your transmission from getting the necessary transmission fluid level, which then causes the parts to break down over time.
Read More: Freightliner Shuts Off While Driving? Surprising Reasons Why it Happens
Bottom Line
Some Freightliner Cascadia automatic transmission problems can start out small. However, if you ignore common symptoms of a problem as the ones we have just mentioned, you may be putting your vehicle at risk including your own safety. At the onset, such repairs are typically simple and relatively inexpensive. But by ignoring these symptoms, the problem can worsen leading to costly repairs or replacements that will then lead to unscheduled downtimes.
With all these things in mind, it is best to get the problem settled the moment you notice any symptoms to ensure the proper operation of your vehicle and your peace of mind.