Can I Drive With a Transmission Problem?

If your car has started slipping gears, jerking when shifting, or making strange noises during acceleration, you may be asking, “Can I keep driving like this for now?” The short answer: you shouldn’t. Even minor transmission issues can escalate into serious—and expensive—damage fast.

At Top Notch Transmissions, we’ve seen it too many times. Fort Worth drivers put off a small repair to save time or money, only to end up stranded on the road or facing a full transmission replacement. Your transmission is one of the most critical systems in your vehicle, and driving with known problems can risk your safety and wallet.

How Driving With Transmission Problems Makes Things Worse

When a transmission isn’t functioning properly, it means the internal components—like clutches, bands, gears, and solenoids—are under extra stress. This extra strain leads to excessive wear, heat buildup, and eventual breakdown of parts that could have been saved with timely service.

Here’s what can happen when you keep driving with symptoms:

1. Overheating
Low fluid levels, slipping gears, or poor lubrication causes your transmission to overheat. Once temperatures rise, your transmission fluid starts to break down, losing its ability to protect moving parts. Overheating is one of the top causes of full transmission failure.

2. Gear Slippage or Loss of Power
If your transmission slips out of gear while driving, you can suddenly lose acceleration, especially dangerous in Fort Worth traffic or on highways like I-35. Slipping can also cause the engine to overrev, further damaging both engine and transmission.

3. Internal Component Damage
Delayed shifting, grinding noises, or jolting shifts often signal failing clutches or bands. Continuing to drive on them wears them down to the point that a rebuild—or total replacement—is your only option.

4. Complete Breakdown
If ignored long enough, even a small issue can leave you stranded, potentially putting you in a dangerous situation or requiring a costly tow and emergency service.

Warning Signs Fort Worth Drivers Shouldn’t Ignore

Transmission issues rarely appear without warning. Pay close attention to these common symptoms:

• Delayed or rough shifting
• Slipping out of gear
• Grinding, whining, or clunking noises
• Transmission fluid leaks under your vehicle
• A burning smell from under the hood
• Check engine or transmission warning lights

If your vehicle is doing any of the above, it’s time to act—not guess.

When You Might Be Tempted to Keep Driving

We understand the hesitation. Maybe the car still moves, and the symptoms seem small. You may be thinking:

• “It only slips once in a while.”
• “I’ll get it looked at next week.”
• “It’s just making a little noise.”

But here’s the truth: Transmission problems rarely stay minor. They often get worse with every mile you drive. In Fort Worth’s high-heat conditions and stop-and-go traffic, even a small issue can snowball quickly.

What to Do Instead of Driving It

If you suspect a transmission problem, it’s best to:

1. Stop driving and inspect the issue.
   Check for fluid leaks or strange smells.
2. Avoid towing unless it’s on a flatbed.
   Towing incorrectly can damage the transmission further.
3. Call a transmission specialist.
   Shops like Top Notch Transmissions can guide you on whether your vehicle can be driven safely—or if it should be towed in.
4. Schedule a diagnostic.
   Get professional answers and a clear plan before things get worse.

Why Fort Worth Drivers Trust Top Notch Transmissions

With over 40 years serving Fort Worth, Top Notch Transmissions has seen—and fixed—it all. From minor repairs to full overhauls, we specialize in honest, expert care for automatic and manual transmissions. Our team uses advanced diagnostics, and we back our work with reliable warranties and clear communication every step of the way.

We know what local drivers deal with: hot summers, city traffic, and long commutes. That’s why we tailor every service to your vehicle, your needs, and your driving habits.

If you’re experiencing shifting problems or suspect a transmission issue, don’t wait until it’s too late. Call Top Notch Transmissions today to schedule a diagnostic and find out exactly what’s wrong—before your vehicle takes you off the road for good.