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What to do if the car's automatic transmission suddenly goes into emergency mode

Experts analyze possible problems and give recommendations

Oct 31, 2024 10:03 665

What to do if the car's automatic transmission suddenly goes into emergency mode  - 1

“Automatics“, “robots“, CVT - all these types of automatic transmissions have its advantages and disadvantages. But what if precisely the latter manifests itself in a classic automatic, and suddenly and unexpectedly? Experts tell in what cases emergency mode can be triggered in these gearboxes and what should be done.

When the emergency mode of operation of the automatic gearbox is activated, the car stops responding adequately to pressing the gas pedal and loses dynamics. If the automatic transmission has entered the emergency mode of operation, this may indicate the presence of serious malfunctions, including mechanical damage to the automatic transmission housing, wear of the torque converter, destruction of transmission elements or valve clogging. Limitations in the operation of this gearbox may also occur if the wiring is damaged, the power supply is unstable, or the temperature sensors and input shaft are damaged.

The transition of the automatic transmission into emergency mode can be caused by mechanical and hydraulic malfunctions, lack of transmission fluid or low efficiency of the control unit. If the emergency operation of the box is associated with damage to the main parts and assemblies, including the hydraulic unit, temperature sensor or shaft rotation indicator, serious repairs will be required.

There can be many reasons for the malfunction of this device, and the car owner cannot always independently identify the source of the problem. For an accurate diagnosis, it is best to contact a specialist, and this should be done as soon as possible. Also, if the box suddenly “shows its character“ while driving, experts say there is a high probability that some components will need replacement.

And already in the service center, technicians will be able to quickly carry out a complete diagnosis: modern cars with an automatic transmission of any type are equipped with an electronic control unit that allows you to identify the malfunction by the error code.

But you should be aware that prolonged operation of a transmission operating in emergency mode will lead to rapid wear of the damaged elements, which will require drastic measures to be taken, including replacement of cables, electronic equipment and even the entire transmission. experts warn.

In order to extremely reduce the risk of another failure of automation, requiring a long and complex overhaul, experts recommend that you adhere to simple rules. First of all, choose your engine oil carefully and always fill only with the most suitable one. It is also advisable to exclude sharp acceleration from your driving style and generally try to move smoothly. It is clear that these techniques are useful for any gearbox, but in the case of automatics they are of particular importance.