What Are Common Peterbilt 579 Automatic Transmission Problems?

Are you concerned about  some Peterbilt 579 automatic transmission problems?

Generally, transmission issues do not get resolved on their own. Moreover, as you allow the problem to persist, the time will come when your vehicle would require a total transmission replacement. This is even more expensive and comes with an invasive repair work, which can take longer to fix.

Thus, it is important to recognize common symptoms of transmission problems. By doing so, you can prevent things from getting worse. After all, the gearbox is among the most critical and costliest components of your vehicle. You need to make sure that it is working as it should and that your transmission is in good shape. 

Find out the common signs of the Peterbilt 579 automatic transmission problems and what you can do about these.

peterbilt 579 automatic transmission problems

1, Slipping In Your Transmission

It is quite common for some people to experience the transmission sliding. This may be caused by numerous reasons such as fluid leaks, solenoid faults, worn out gears, and low fluid leaks in your transmission.

Thankfully, it should be easy to detect if the gearbox is sliding, even more so in automatic trucks. ‍But when you notice a high-pitched whine or a low rumble, the RPM tends to rise at an increasingly fast pace. This happens when your downshift abruptly and the transmission slides.

However, you may also want to observe if the truck ends up driving slowly or it appears to be underpowered. This occurs when your gearbox upshifts at a lower speed. The acceleration may be sluggish and the engine noise appears to be lower-pitched unlike the usual. 

Do keep in mind that a sliding transmission is a safety risk as this can lead to accidents and further transmission damage. So, if you notice such an issue, you may want to contact your technician immediately. 

‍2. Sudden Changes In Your Transmission

When you switch your truck into another gear, there should be no delay or difficulty at all. But if you hear some thudding or clunking sounds, then you need to get your vehicle checked. It is not normal to hear such sounds when you change gears. 

The most common cause of these sounds include a low level of transmission fluid, as well as worn out gears. These components include the solenoids and digital sensors, which is why you should have the problem fixed when you notice these noises.

3, Delay In Shifting Gears

Did you even notice ‍your truck being somewhat delayed or even some signs of hesitations each time you are moving it into gear? The gearbox may also fail to engage even if you push the gas pedal, and this means that there is no power to your wheels for several seconds. 

If so, this is most definitely a clutch issue. Your clutch makes it possible to shift gears whether you have automated or manual trucks. So, when your clutch has a problem, transmission performance is also affected.

When you allow this problem to persist, the gearbox may be damaged, and this can be quite expensive to fix. So, it is best to evaluate your truck’s condition sooner than later if you notice these issues.

Sometimes, the transmission may even fail to go into gear intermittently. This is a concern you should be wary about. This is why you should inspect the level of transmission fluid to make sure it is not low. You can also disconnect your battery for half an hour and reset the computer. But if none of these techniques work, it is time to take a trip to the mechanic to have these issues sorted out. 

4. Look For Fluid Leaks

Fluid leaks tend to arise because of transmission slippage, as well as a reduced efficiency and performance to your transmission. Make sure there are no leaks and inspect if there is any by observing underneath the vehicle for fluid buildup. If you see a transparent or bright red fluid, this is most definitely a transmission fluid and there is a leak.

If you have this issue addressed sooner than later, then you can easily get it fixed and have the fluid topped up. But further transmission problems can occur when you fail to get it addressed immediately.

Read More: What To Do With Peterbilt Dash Lights Not Working

Additional Points To Consider

peterbilt 579 automatic transmission problems

When you have the check engine light illuminated, it means that there are some problems with your vehicle that may need to be addressed such as worn out air filters, broken spark plugs, and a few others. 

But if the light turns on alongside some transmission problem symptoms, then be sure never to delay it any further. Make it a point to visit your repair shop to have the problem remedied before things get even worse and more expensive to fix. 

With problems still at their onset or early stage, this should only take a few hours to repair and without blowing up your budget. So, make it a point to stay on top of these fixes and have more ease when you drive your vehicle.

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