Meritor 10 speed transmission problems can be concerning for most people.
After all, when mechanical problems arise with vehicles, you can encounter some serious effects and a reduced performance. After all, your truck’s transmission has seen a lot of use throughout the years. This is why eventually, it will begin to show some problems.
But the worst part is that transmission repairs can be intensive – and expensive. Thus, you should pay close attention to any unusual signs you notice before the problem blows up into something big.
Here are among the most common Meritor 10 speed transmission problems to look out for and some tips you may want to apply in addressing them. Let’s get right into it.
Meritor 10 Speed Transmission Problems
If there is something quite unusual with your Meritor 10 speed truck, you may want to look for some signs that are often linked with transmission problems. Here they are:
1. Leaking Fluid
One of the most common symptoms linked with a transmission problem is a leaking fluid. This is easy to identify since all you need to do is to check if the area where you park your car has a sweet-smelling and clear or bright red fluid, which is the transmission fluid. It may also smell as though it is burnt and will appear as a dark red liquid.
If you notice this sign, then it is time to replace your transmission fluid. Your mechanic should be able to take care of this, which is why it is important to get this done by a specialist sooner than later.
Now, your transmission fluid is not really used up or burnt up unlike with the motor oil. So, if you notice that your vehicle is low on this fluid, then it is highly likely that there is a leak happening.
2. Burnt Smell
Another sign that your transmission problem is having issues is when you smell something burning. This indicates an overheating problem. You can also check for other symptoms linked with this issue such as low transmission fluid levels and signs of a leak or contamination in the fluid.
3. Noise in the transmission when in neutral
If you are starting to hear some noise that your car makes when in the neutral position, this may be a sign of a bad transmission. You may need to have the transmission fluid replaced or topped up, which is an important thing to do, especially when it has gotten low.
Make it a priority to check your manual when determining the right type of transmission fluid for you to use. This way, you will not end up making the wrong choice of fluid to put in your car, which can do more harm than good to your vehicle.
4. Difficulty in going into gear
Normally, your vehicle should not encounter any difficulties when it comes to putting it into the right gear. This is why if you experience some issues when shifting into the gear needed even after pressing the clutch pedal, then you may have some transmission issues. Among the other possible causes of this problem are a low transmission fluid level, incorrect fluid viscosity, as well as some problems with the shift cables or the clutch linkage.
5. Slipping gears
The normal way for your vehicle to respond when putting into gear is to stay where it is. However, when the gears begin to slip, it means that your shift stick is placed back forcefully into neutral. This is not a good sign and can even be a safety risk when you are driving.
Moreover, you may even notice that your vehicle is not responding or not going into the right gear. When this happens, then something is seriously wrong. You would need to have your transmission checked to make sure that it is still working as it should.
6. Illuminated check engine light
Having the check engine light illuminated is not a good sign. It is usually the first indicator of a faulty transmission, which is why you should make it a point to have an expert check your vehicle.
Do keep in mind that this light is not only about your engine. It can also present other issues to you such as transmission concerns that include overheating, speed sensor problems and slipping transmission, among a few others.
You will have a specialist check and read the error codes that the system shows, which helps them to determine the circuits and systems that are presenting a problem. Some sensor-related codes do not necessarily mean that your sensor is bad, but it can also point out a problem with your transmission, in some cases.
Read More: What are common Peterbilt 579 Automatic Transmission Problems?
Your Next Step
Generally, the Meritor 10 speed is a reliable vehicle. It should be able to handle tough jobs because of the sturdy engine and transmission. However, this does not mean that it is not prone to issues.
In fact, there are many situations where problems will start to present themselves, which are commonly linked with a faulty transmission. The symptoms we have enumerated are among these common signs of a problem with the transmission, and can also involve other components.
With all these things in mind, make it a point to have the problem diagnosed and addressed by a specialist early on during the start of these symptoms. If the problem is not yet severe, the extent of damage should not cost you so much money or repair work.
Otherwise, putting these symptoms off and ignoring them even when your vehicle is in need of a repair or parts replacement can lead to further issues. You may also be putting yourself and other motorists in danger when the damage becomes worse. So, we highly recommend having an experienced mechanic have a look at the problematic component and get it repaired sooner than later for your peace of mind.