Common Gearbox Problems in Singapore and What They Mean
Noticed something wrong with your automatic gearbox? Find your symptom below to see the usual causes and what to do next.
Find your symptom
Transmission check light on
The engine or transmission check light comes on while driving. Some cars also hold one gear (often called “limp mode”) to protect the gearbox.
What it means →Lack of response
You press the accelerator and the car hesitates, or there is a delay before it goes into Drive or Reverse.
What it means →Can’t change gear
The car stays in first gear, or only shifts up to third, when moving off or while driving.
What it means →Jerking or gears slipping
The car jerks when shifting up or down, slips in and out of gear, or pops into neutral while driving.
What it means →Vibration
The car vibrates at high speed on low RPM, or when accelerating hard from a standstill.
What it means →ATF leaking or low
Bright red oil (ATF) stains on the floor after the car has been parked for a while.
What it means →Gearbox noise
A loud noise from the gearbox once the engine starts or while the car is moving.
What it means →Engine revs but car doesn’t speed up
You press the accelerator, the engine revs climb, but the car is slow to pick up speed, or the gear seems to slip out for a moment.
What it means →Burning smell
A sharp burning smell after driving, especially in stop-start traffic or after a long climb, sometimes with slipping or harsh shifts.
What it means →Car won’t move in Drive or Reverse
The engine starts and runs, but the car doesn’t move, or barely moves, when you select Drive or Reverse.
What it means →Gear lever stuck in Park
You press the brake but the gear lever won’t move out of Park, or the gear selector doesn’t respond.
What it means →Not sure which one it is?
Gearbox symptoms often overlap, and the same symptom can have very different causes. Our pre-repair diagnostic reads the transmission fault codes and checks the gearbox, then we tell you the fault and the price before any work starts.
- Pre-repair diagnostic from S$30
- Clear quote before any work starts
- Free towing if the car can’t move
Gearbox problem FAQ
What are the signs my gearbox needs attention?
How much is the diagnostic?
How much does a gearbox repair cost in Singapore?
My car can’t move. Can you tow it?
Which car brands do you work on?
What customers say about Jacky
“… Arranged an appointment with Jacky and drove my BMW 5 series to let him check. Workshop was impressive from the setup …”
Ulysses Wang · BMW 5 Series
“… I was initially very worried about the repair cost when my Audi A4 gearbox was diagnosed to be faulty. But Jacky was very patient and professional in explaining to me the overhaul process and the quoted price was below what I have expected. My car was ready after 3 days and was given a 6 months warranty as well. I would definitely recommend my friends to them for any gearbox issues.”
Alvin Lee · Audi A4
Our workshops in Woodlands and Jalan Lam Huat
Woodlands (Wave 9)
71 Woodlands Industrial Park E9, #01-25 Wave 9
Singapore 757048
- Mon – Fri
- 9:00am – 6:00pm
- Saturday
- 9:00am – 3:00pm
- Sun & PH
- Closed
Gearbox acting up?
WhatsApp or call us. If the car can’t move, we’ll tow it in for free.