My automatic transmission slips and jerks when shifting between gears. Sometimes there is a delay before it engages. How serious is this?
Transmission slipping is a serious issue that will get worse if ignored. The most common cause is low or degraded transmission fluid. Check the fluid level with the engine running and the transmission in Park (consult your owner manual for the exact procedure as it varies by model). The fluid should be red or pink and not smell burnt. If it is dark brown or black with a burnt smell, the fluid is degraded and needs changing. A transmission fluid change costs 100 to 300 dollars and resolves many slipping issues. If the fluid level and condition are normal, the transmission may have internal wear on the clutch packs or bands. A transmission rebuild costs 1,500 to 3,500 dollars. A full replacement costs 3,000 to 7,000 dollars. Do not delay diagnosis — continuing to drive with a slipping transmission causes progressively more internal damage and increases the repair cost significantly. Get a transmission shop to diagnose it within the next week.
