Factors that Contribute to Slow or Sluggish Gear Shift in Saab
Saab vehicles are durable and efficient cars; however, they tend to run into transmission issues that can cause slow or sluggish gear shifting problems. In this article, we’ll go over what transmission components usually lead to gear shifting issues and how you can best maintain your Saab’s transmission for optimal functioning.
Factors that Contribute to Sluggish Gear Shifting
Gear shifting issues are problematic, whether the car is an automatic or manual transmission. There are several things your Saab specialist will want to look for initially when you report sluggish gear shifting. Usually they start with inspecting the transmission fluid and filter, as they are the most common reasons for gear shifting problems.
Transmission Fluid
The transmission fluid in your Saab is critical for it’s overall function. Just as engine oil keeps the parts of your engine running smoothly and well lubricated, transmission fluid does the same thing for the various components of your transmission. This fluid must be well maintained in order for the transmission to work properly. Furthermore, the transmission fluid also helps lower operating temperatures and protects components from friction and wear.
Wrong Kind of Fluid
Your Saab owner’s manual will designate the correct type of transmission fluid to use, and this guideline should be adhered to. When the wrong type of transmission fluid is used, it can cause performance issues such as sluggish gear shifting.
Low Fluid
Low transmission fluid is an indication that there is something going wrong with your Saab’s performance and function. If you notice low fluid, you should keep your eyes out for concerning transmission fluid leaks beneath your car. Transmission fluid is usually a reddish brown color.
Poor Quality
Contaminated transmission fluid is never a good sign. If the quality of the transmission fluid is poor, usually a transmission flush is recommended; however, whatever caused the fluid quality to become poor must be investigated to prevent it from occurring again.
Clogged Fluid Filter
A clogged fluid filter can lead to debris collecting in your transmission fluid, which can lead to premature part wear and rough running conditions, including sluggish gear shifting.
Other Symptoms to Look For
Although the transmission fluid is the first line of defense against transmission and gear shifting issues, there are other signs to look out for that indicate the cause of the gear shifting problems has originated somewhere else. These are other common signs of transmission-related problems that can give you insight into how symptoms developed.
Check-Engine Light
If the check-engine light ever comes on, it is essential to have it diagnosed and repaired right away. The check engine light comes on when the car’s computer detects an issue related to the car’s performance. The check-engine light can indicate any number of benign issues that aren’t necessarily urgent; however, if you notice the light come on alongside any gear shifting problems, your Saab should be brought to a specialist right away.
Odd Noises When Shifting
Although most Saabs that experience gear-shifting problems are automatic transmissions, manual transmissions might produce a grinding noise when shifting gears if a problem comes up. Additionally, if you have an automatic transmission, your car may rev up to high RPMs before shifting gears, causing a loud revving sound that can be alarming.
Why It’s Important to Hire a Saab Specialist for Transmission Repair
There are fewer more critical components of a vehicle than the transmission. Your Saab’s transmission is integral to its functioning, and this complex system of interworking parts can encounter issues at any time. A Saab specialist will have expertise in various Saab transmissions, can diagnose and treat issues accurately and efficiently, and can save you money by preventively maintaining your transmission. Hiring a Saab specialist will not only save you time and money, but will keep your car in optimal condition year-round and promote reliability.
How We Can Help You With Your Saab’s Maintenance
Finding automotive shops that specialize in Saab cars isn’t easy in the areas of Decatur and Atlanta, GA. At Munich West, we have extensive experience and expertise working with Saab vehicles and other European imports. Transmission issues can be daunting, but we aren’t afraid to confront them head on. Since 1976 our clients have come to us for reliable, consistent, and trustworthy automotive maintenance and repair services, but they also come to us because we treat them as if they were our family. We care about our clients’ safety and satisfaction, and we’ll do whatever we can to make their experience pleasant. If you’d like to get to know our shop better or would like to schedule an appointment, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us right away.
* Saab 900 Turbo image credit goes to: Sjo.
