Did you know your transmission is the most expensive component to repair or replace after your engine? When your Suzuki Alto transmission slips, it can be a significant problem for any road-going vehicle, especially car owners with an automatic transmission system.
Transmission slipping is one of the many car problems that begins as a minor issue and quickly escalates into an expensive problem. For this reason, you should never delay fixing a transmission problem.
It is also important to note that the Suzuki Alto transmission slipping doesn’t necessarily mean your transmission system is about to fail. Sometimes, it’s a sign that you need a maintenance service.
Due to an automatic transmission’s complexity and sophistication, there could be several reasons why it is slipping. Transmission slipping is commonly associated with the clutch for manual systems.
Signs and Symptoms of Suzuki AltoTransmission Slipping
Your transmission is slipping because it is attempting to change gears and failing. When this happens, it either falls back into the previous gear or settles into neutral. This problem can occur for several reasons; however, the symptoms are unmistakable.
Automatic transmission symptoms of transmission slipping
- Check engine light illuminates.
- Car engine RPM increases, but your vehicle’s speed doesn’t peak.
- Your transmission will try to upshift but, instead, fall into a lower gear.
- When the transmission falls into a lower gear, it pushes the engine into a higher RPM.
- Transmission fails to shift into reverse.
- The driver will experience strange sounds when shifting.
- There is a burning smell.
- The driver will experience rough or hard gear changes.
Manual transmission symptoms of transmission slipping
- Transmission fails to shift into the designated gear.
- The driver experiences strange sounds while shifting gears.
- The transmission will fall out of gear spontaneously.
Why is my Suzuki Alto Transmission Slipping?
There are several reasons why your transmission might be slipping. Some are more common than others, but most occur in automatic transmission vehicles rather than manual systems.
Low Fluid levels
Perhaps the most common reason your transmission is slipping is low fluid levels. When your transmission fluid level is low, your vehicle will experience several issues. The most common are overheating and low hydraulic pressure produced to engage the gears. The easiest way to check for low fluid levels is to look for the Suzuki Alto transmission dipstick under your hood and check the levels.
It is important to note that a transmission system is a closed unit, and it should never be low on fluid. If your dipstick indicates that you have low fluids, there could be a leak in the system.
Burnt Fluid
Sometimes, Suzuki Alto transmission slipping is caused by fluid burning, not necessarily being low. If you notice a burnt toast smell or your transmission fluid is black, this is probably the reason. When this happens, you must replace the transmission fluid. Ensure you have a professional mechanic check the system to ensure there isn’t any damage, either.
Issues with the Torque Converter
The torque converter converts the power produced in the engine to torque, which is the form of power used in the transmission. Like any other component in your vehicle, over extensive use, the torque converter can wear down. In proper working conditions, fluid flows through the torque converter. If the fluid isn’t flowing correctly on this component, your transmission is prone to misbehaving in several ways, including slipping.
Problems with the Clutch
Both manual and automatic transmission systems have clutches. In automated transmission systems, clutch plates are throughout the Suzuki Alto transmission and even in the torque converters. When there is inadequate or burnt fluid, the clutches can become worn out, leading to slippage.
Faulty Gears
Like any other component, when your vehicle begins to age, the gears will also wear out. It is important to note that this is a completely natural occurrence due to wear and tear. Your transmission gears can again wear out due to malfunctions. In case your gears are worn out or frayed, they will fail to link, leading to slippage properly.
Issues with the Solenoid
The solenoid in your transmission system is an electrohydraulic valve that controls the flow of fluid throughout your transmission. Damage or electrical issues can cause the wrong amounts of fluid to be dispersed.
How Can I Prevent Transmission Slippage?
It is very simple to prevent Suzuki Alto transmission slippage issues; vehicle owners need to service their cars regularly. This involves periodically checking your transmission fluid for issues such as low levels of dirty or leaking fluid.
Any of these can lead to Suzuki Alto transmission slippage or worse problems. A rule of thumb is to perform fluid checks during regular service maintenance with your mechanic.