Transmission whine is a common issue that can make driving less enjoyable and even impact the overall performance of your vehicle.
This high-pitched sound can be distracting and even embarrassing. Unfortunately, whining doesn’t necessarily indicate a specific transmission issue because other problems might cause the sound.
In this blog, we’ll guide you through the causes of this noise and how to stop transmission whine for good.
What Causes a Transmission to Whine?
1. Low or Wrong Transmission Fluid
The transmission whining can be stopped by using the right transmission fluid and adding extra fluid if it is low. Insufficient lubrication might cause the shavings to emerge and make a whining sound.
Also, there are situations when the problem is not with the fluid’s level. Using the wrong kind of fluid can result in a transmission whining–There are several kinds of fluids needed for various transmissions purpose. The fluid must maintain the proper levels at all times.
2. Torque Converter Issue
The torque converter is situated close to where the engine and transmission collide. If the whining grows louder when in gear, it means there is an issue with the torque converter.
However, if the noise happens when the clutch is engaged and the gear is in neutral, On the other hand, if the noise occurs with the clutch engaged and the gear in neutral, the input shaft or bearings may be damaged.
3. Worn-out clutch
When a car has a manual gearbox, a worn clutch may be to blame for the whining sounds, but it also occasionally may be the flywheel. To stop the noise at that point, you must replace the flywheel.
4. Faulty Throw-out Bearing
If you are hearing the winning noise but it is not coming from the clutch, the throw-out bearing is most likely the cause. Rather than driving the automobile without applying clutch pedal pressure, it is fairly typical to hear when using the clutch.
5. Clogged Filter
Another reason your transmission may be whining is that a filter needs to be changed or that certain components require cleaning.
When your filter hasn’t been changed or cleaned in a while, it will clog with dirt and debris, which will then result in a whining sound.
Also, a rusty pan may make noise because it has accumulated a lot of dirt and debris.
6. Worn-out Gear Sets
As your gears start to wear down, they will begin to produce this whining noise from the transmission, most especially when the vehicle is in acceleration.
How to Stop Transmission Whine
1. Put your Car on Reverse Gear
Maintaining the car with an automatic transmission in reverse causes the fluid requirement for the transmission to go up. The fluid cannot rise if the filter is blocked; therefore, both the fluid and the filter need to be changed.
2. Check Transmission Fluid
The transmission fluid should be checked. If it’s low, extra should be added or if it doesn’t have the proper color, it should be changed it. Make sure you’re using the correct fluid by checking your manual.
Also, changing this fluid frequently is a good idea since it can stop issues like whining. Additionally, it’s wise to inspect the car’s other parts for leakage regularly.
3. Clean the Filter
If there are no issues with the transmission fluid, then you need to check your filter to find out if it’s clogged. If they are dirty, carefully remove the transmission pan and clean it.
When you remove the pan, always ensure the gaskets are in good condition.
4. Replace the Torque Converter
Pull the probe out of the hose while using your mechanical stethoscope. This will offer the search for the noises as a highly directed tool.
In its place, the clutch is replaced with this torque converter. Additionally, the transmission’s front is where the noise will most likely come from.
FAQs
How Can I Fix a Whining Transmission?
If there is insufficient fluid or a blocked filter, an automatic transmission that is whining can be easily fixed. To ensure that it operates smoothly once again, the mechanic will clean or repair the component and fill off the gearbox fluid.
How Can Whining Noise When Accelerating be Fixed?
A whining sound made when accelerating may be caused by a slack steering belt. The sound will happen when you are turning the steering wheels. You can this problem by pulling in the belt.
If your vehicle makes a whining noise when you are accelerating, a transmission problem is most likely at fault. This noise can be caused by worn-out gears, low transmission fluid due to a leak, or a clogged filter.
Will the Transmission Whine When Parked?
The gearbox rarely makes whining sounds unless the car is in gear. However, a worn-out bearing in the torque converter of the gearbox may be the reason you hear this noise when the gearshift is in ‘park’ or ‘neutral’. Get your car examined as soon as you hear the whining noise.
Can Dirty Transmission Fluid Make You Whine?
Yes, there may be a whine if there is insufficient fluid or if the fluid is tainted with dirt and debris. In this situation, the transmission filter will probably be clogged as well. If this is the issue, make sure to change the transmission fluid and filter completely.
Read: What is Power Mode in Toyota Highlander?
Conclusion
Transmission whining can be a frustrating and embarrassing issue, but you don’t have to deal with it constantly. With the appropriate strategy mentioned in this post, you can successfully get rid of this high-pitched noise from your car.