An automatic transmission becomes more reliable these days, but still it's a most-easy-to-break and very-expensive-to-fix part of the vehicle.
If heavily abused, the automatic transmission can be easily destroyed within just half an hour. Also, an automatic transmission is very sensitive to the transmission fluid quality and condition. Improper fluid type can damage the transmission.
First, check for oil leaks. There should be no leaks.
When you give your car for a normal service always ask the mechanic to check for even the slightest leakage of oil from the transmission unit. If the leak is of extremely minor nature and the mechanic says that the oil leak requires a transmission oil pan gasket change, get it replaced when going in for an oil change. Just make sure that the oil level is maintained and occasionally keep checking for an increase in the oil leakage.
One of the indications of a transmission problem is delayed engagement, when there is a long delay between the moment you shift the shifter into drive or reverse and the moment the transmission kicks in. There should be no strong jerk or clunk. If there is a notable long delay between the moment you shift and the moment the transmission kicks in, such a transmission might be either too worn or has some problem, avoid driving the car. If you feel a strong jerk or clunk while shifting, the car may have a transmission problem, again avoid driving the vehicle.
Another thing that may indicate the transmission problem is the slipping. When the transmission is excessively worn it may slip, which means you press the accelerator, the engine rpm increases but the speed remains the same.
Often the transmission may work well when it's cold but when it's warmed up it starts giving troubles or visa versa. Normally there should be no shudder, no noises or any kind of strong jerks at any speed and at any engine temperatures while any shifting. If the "check engine" and/or a flashing overdrive light comes on while driving, have the problem assessed with your mechanic.
Remember: Once you notice even the smallest of problems in your vehicle, get it solved immediately. The more you delay solving the problem, the deeper will the hole in your pocket get!
Other related transmission problems you might find with your Automatic Transmission:
• Extension Housing Gasket
• Extension Housing Seal
• External Oil Filter
• Main Control Valve Body
• Manual & Throttle Linkage
• Manual Lever Position Sensor
• Manual Shaft Seal
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• Manual Shift Linkage
• Neutral Safety or Trans Range Sensor
• Parking Pawl
• Pressure Control Solenoid
• Processor Assembly
• Servo Assembly
• Shift Control Solenoid
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• Speedometer Driven Gear
• Throttle Shaft &/or Seal
• Torque Converter Clutch Solenoid
• Transmission Diagnosis
• Transmission Assembly Overhaul
• Transmission Reseal
• Transmission Control Switch
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• Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor
• Transmission Oil Filter
• Transmission Oil Pan &/or Gasket
• Transmission Seal Kit
• Transmission Speed Sensor
• Transmission Wiring Harness Assembly
• Turbine Speed Sensor
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