Kenny's Transmissions Customer Blog

by Kenny’s Transmission 14 August 2025
Your car's transmission is essential for transferring power from the engine to the wheels, and it relies on transmission fluid to stay cool, lubricated, and functioning properly. When that fluid starts to leak, even in small amounts, it can cause serious damage if left unaddressed. Catching a transmission fluid leak early can save you from costly repairs and prevent potential breakdowns. At Kenny’s Transmission, we provide expert transmission fluid leak detection and repair in the greater Indianapolis area. Here are four warning signs that your vehicle may need transmission fluid leak repair. Reddish Fluid Spots Under the Car One of the most obvious signs of a transmission fluid leak is the presence of reddish spots under your parked vehicle. Transmission fluid is typically bright red when fresh, but it can turn darker as it ages. If you see these stains on your driveway or garage floor, it’s a strong indication that fluid is escaping from the system and needs immediate attention. Slipping Gears or Hesitation When the transmission fluid level drops due to a leak, your vehicle may begin to slip out of gear or hesitate when shifting. This happens because the fluid pressure, which is vital for smooth gear changes, is compromised. If you notice delayed acceleration, a jerky transition between gears, or the sensation that the transmission is struggling to engage, a fluid leak could be the root cause. Burning Smell While Driving A burning odor coming from your car can be a sign that your transmission fluid is leaking onto hot engine parts or that the fluid level is too low to keep the transmission cool. This can lead to overheating, which accelerates wear and may cause permanent damage. A strong, acrid smell while driving is a serious warning sign that shouldn't be ignored. Low Transmission Fluid Level If you routinely need to top off your transmission fluid, there’s likely a leak somewhere in the system. Regularly checking your transmission fluid dipstick, if your vehicle has one, can help you monitor the level and spot a leak before major symptoms develop. Transmission Repair in Greenwood, IN For transmission repair in Greenwood, IN and the surrounding area, contact Kenny’s Transmission at  (317) 762-0389  . Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment for transmission repair in greater Indianapolis!
by Kenny’s Transmission 15 July 2025
Your car’s transmission is one of its most important and complex components. It plays a critical role in shifting gears and ensuring your engine delivers power efficiently to the wheels. However, even a well-built transmission can suffer premature wear or failure when subjected to poor driving habits. Many drivers unknowingly contribute to transmission trouble simply through the way they operate their vehicles day after day. Here are four common driving habits that can lead to costly transmission problems. Shifting Between Drive and Reverse Without Stopping A damaging thing you can unwittingly do to your transmission is shift between drive and reverse while the vehicle is still slightly moving. This sudden change in direction puts a heavy strain on the transmission’s internal components. Whether you're in a hurry to back out of a driveway or maneuvering in tight spaces, always come to a complete stop before changing gears. Failing to do so can wear down the gears and lead to damage. Towing More Than Your Vehicle Can Handle Overloading your vehicle or towing beyond its rated capacity puts excessive stress on the transmission. The added weight forces the transmission to work harder to move the vehicle, which can result in overheating. Always check your vehicle’s towing specifications and use the appropriate gear or tow mode to help reduce strain. Ignoring these limits can shorten your transmission’s lifespan. Neglecting to Use the Parking Brake on Inclines When parking on a slope, many drivers rely solely on the transmission to hold the vehicle in place. This places pressure on the parking pawl, a small part inside the transmission designed to lock the gears. Over time, this constant pressure can lead to significant wear and tear on the mechanism. Using the parking brake when parked on an incline helps relieve stress on the transmission and keeps your vehicle more secure. Ignoring Strange Noises or Shifting Problems Some drivers continue to drive even when their vehicle shows early warning signs of transmission trouble, such as hard shifts, slipping gears, or odd noises. Ignoring these symptoms can allow minor issues to escalate into serious mechanical failures. Paying attention to your car’s behavior and seeking prompt service can prevent further damage and extend the life of your transmission. Transmission Repair in Greenwood, IN For transmission repair in Greenwood, IN and the surrounding area, contact Kenny’s Transmission at  (317) 762-0389  . We can expertly address your transmission repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!
by Kenny’s Transmission 14 June 2025
At Kenny’s Transmission, we’re proud members of the local small business community. Our nearby transmission mechanics strive to exceed our customers’ expectations by doing top-quality transmission work at fair prices. If your car isn’t shifting properly, we’ll properly diagnose it and thoroughly address the issue. And we’re grateful when our customers offer feedback about their experiences with us. Here’s a look at some of our latest customer reviews. “Did a great job on my 05 trailblazer.. very good work and reasonable price. Hopefully won't need transmission work in future but if I do this is where I will take my vehicle.” — Brian R. “Kenny's is awesome! They do incredible work. The office staff is amazing. It's definitely a go-to for your transmission needs. Highly recommend.” — A. Smithfield “I dropped my Bronco off due to bad shifting, after doing their diagnosis they determined it was an electrical issue ¬t mechanical. So unfortunately they weren't able to do any work but due to their diagnosis I was able to figure out my issue & just had to switch out my shift solenoid connection which I did at home. Since they weren't able to do the repairs they didn't charge me any fees, so when I get closer to having to actually rebuild my transmission Ill be taking it here.” — Willy P. “Very nice staff! Did great work on our vehicle. Honest and fair. Highly recommend!” — Lisa W. “I highly recommend these guys at Kenny’s Transmissions.l have a 2017 Silverado they fixed and it runs better than when I first purchased the truck.” — Stew S. “Great to work with, highly-qualified!” — Bill B. Transmission Repair in Greenwood, IN When you need transmission repair in Greenwood, IN and the surrounding area, contact Kenny’s Transmission at  (317) 762-0389  . Our local transmission mechanics will make sure that your vehicle is able to shift smoothly and safely. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment for your transmission needs in greater Indianapolis!
by Kenny’s Transmission 15 May 2025
Your vehicle’s transmission is a vital component that enables power from the engine to be properly transferred to the wheels. Over time, especially if the transmission isn’t properly maintained, internal components can wear out or become damaged. In some cases, the only solution may be a full transmission rebuild. At Kenny’s Transmission, we provide top-quality transmission rebuilding in the greater Indianapolis area. Here are four indications that your vehicle may need a transmission rebuild. Delayed or Rough Shifting Another red flag is a delay when shifting from park to drive or reverse, or a harsh, jerky feeling when the transmission changes gears. These symptoms can indicate that internal components are no longer functioning smoothly. If transmission fluid levels are normal and you’re still experiencing these problems, a deeper issue may be present that could require a rebuild to restore proper shifting performance. Slipping Gears While Driving One of the most noticeable signs of transmission trouble is gear slippage. If your vehicle suddenly changes gears for no apparent reason, or if it seems to slip in and out of gear while driving, your transmission is struggling. This can make the car feel like it’s hesitating or losing power unexpectedly. Gear slippage often points to worn-out bands or other internal parts that may require rebuilding the transmission to fix. Transmission Fluid Leaks If you notice bright reddish fluid pooling under your vehicle, your transmission may have a leak. Leaks can form due to issues with seals, gaskets, and the transmission pan. A low fluid level can lead to overheating and increased wear that requires a rebuild. Unusual Noises or Grinding Sounds Hearing strange sounds coming from your transmission—such as whining, grinding, or clunking noises—should never be ignored. These noises can point to worn or damaged gears, bearings, or other internal components. In automatic transmissions, whining during acceleration is a common symptom of internal wear. In manual transmissions, grinding when shifting is often a sign of gear damage. If the noise persists even after fluid changes, a rebuild may be necessary. Transmission Rebuilding in Greenwood, IN For expert transmission rebuilding in Greenwood, IN and the surrounding area, contact Kenny’s Transmission at  (317) 762-0389  . At our nearby transmission shop, we can expertly address your transmission repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!
by Kenny’s Transmission 15 April 2025
Your vehicle’s automatic transmission is responsible for shifting gears smoothly and ensuring that power is delivered efficiently to the wheels. When problems arise, they can quickly lead to major damage and expensive repairs if not addressed in a timely manner. Ignoring transmission issues can result in complete failure, leaving you stranded and facing significant repair costs. At Kenny’s Transmission, we provide expert automatic transmission repair in the greater Indianapolis area. If you notice any of the following problems, it’s essential to have your transmission inspected and repaired as soon as possible. Slipping Gears A slipping transmission occurs when the vehicle unexpectedly changes gears or has difficulty staying in the correct gear. This can make your car feel like it is losing power or struggling to accelerate. Slipping gears are often caused by worn-out transmission bands or low or contaminated transmission fluid. If left unaddressed, slipping could lead to greater damage and an increased risk of losing control of the vehicle while driving. Delayed or Harsh Shifting If you experience hesitation when shifting gears or feel a sudden jolt during gear changes, your transmission may be struggling to engage properly. Delayed shifting can make it difficult to accelerate or decelerate smoothly, while harsh shifts can cause unnecessary strain on the transmission. These issues are often linked to low transmission fluid or internal wear. Ignoring rough or delayed shifting can result in further component damage and costly repairs. Transmission Fluid Leaks Automatic transmissions rely on fluid to keep components lubricated and cool. If you notice reddish fluid under your car, you may have a transmission fluid leak. Leaks can occur due to worn-out seals, damaged gaskets, or a cracked transmission pan. Running low on transmission fluid can cause overheating and friction damage to internal parts, leading to complete transmission failure if not addressed promptly. Regularly checking for leaks and fixing them early can help prevent major transmission problems. Unusual Noises or Vibrations A healthy transmission should operate smoothly and quietly. If you hear whining, grinding, or clunking sounds while shifting, or if you feel vibrations when driving, your transmission may be damaged. Strange noises can be caused by worn gears, a failing torque converter, or low fluid levels. Ignoring these warning signs could result in complete transmission failure, requiring expensive repairs or replacement. Automatic Transmission Repair in Greenwood, IN When you need transmission repair in Greenwood, IN and the surrounding area, contact Kenny’s Transmission at  (317) 762-0389  . Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment!
by Kenny’s Transmission 12 March 2025
A transmission fluid leak can lead to serious damage if left unaddressed. Transmission fluid is essential for keeping internal components lubricated and preventing overheating. Identifying the source of a leak early can help you avoid costly repairs and keep your vehicle running smoothly. At Kenny’s Transmission, we provide expert transmission fluid leak repair in the greater Indianapolis area. Here are four common places where transmission fluid leaks occur. Transmission Pan Gasket The transmission pan gasket forms a seal between the transmission pan and the transmission housing, preventing fluid from leaking out. Over time, the gasket can deteriorate due to heat and wear, leading to small cracks or gaps. If the gasket becomes brittle or is improperly installed, transmission fluid may begin to seep out, forming puddles under the vehicle. Replacing the gasket can resolve this issue before it worsens. Seals Transmission seals prevent fluid from escaping at connection points throughout the system. These components can degrade over time due to exposure to heat and friction. Common areas where seal leaks occur include the input shaft and output shaft. When seals wear out, they may allow fluid to leak. Replacing worn seals can help prevent further fluid loss. Torque Converter The torque converter plays a crucial role in transmitting power from the engine to the transmission. It contains transmission fluid that helps transfer energy efficiently. If the torque converter develops a crack, fluid can begin leaking from this component. A leaking torque converter can lead to low fluid levels, resulting in transmission slipping or overheating. Transmission Pan The transmission pan holds a significant amount of fluid and is secured by bolts. If the pan is damaged, corroded, or improperly tightened, it can develop leaks. Checking the pan for damage and ensuring bolts are properly torqued can help prevent leaks from forming. If the pan is in poor condition, replacing it may be the best solution. Transmission Repair in Greenwood, IN When you need transmission repair in Greenwood, IN and the surrounding area, contact Kenny’s Transmission at  (317) 762-0389  . Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!
by Kenny’s Transmission 15 February 2025
Your vehicle's transmission plays a crucial role in delivering power from the engine to the wheels. When it starts to malfunction, it can lead to serious performance issues, which may become more expensive if not addressed promptly. Being aware of the warning signs can help you catch transmission trouble early. At Kenny’s Transmission, we provide expert transmission repair in the greater Indianapolis area. Here are four common signs that you need transmission repair. Delayed or Slipping Gears One of the most noticeable signs of transmission trouble is when your vehicle struggles to shift gears. If you experience a delay when putting your car in drive or reverse, or if the transmission slips out of gear while driving, it’s a clear indication that something is wrong. A properly functioning transmission should shift smoothly and without hesitation. Slipping gears can make your vehicle feel like it's suddenly losing power, which can be dangerous, especially on highways. Unusual Noises Strange noises coming from your vehicle can be alarming, and when it comes to your transmission, unusual sounds should never be ignored. A failing transmission may produce whining, clunking, or humming noises, especially when shifting gears. These sounds often indicate worn-out transmission components or low transmission fluid. If you hear any odd noises while driving, it's best to have the mechanic diagnose the issue before it worsens. Transmission Fluid Leaks Transmission fluid is essential for keeping the system lubricated and preventing overheating. If you notice reddish fluid pooling under your vehicle, it's a sign of a leak. Low transmission fluid levels can lead to excessive friction and overheating, causing severe damage to internal parts. Checking your transmission fluid regularly and addressing leaks immediately can help prevent expensive repairs and extend the lifespan of your transmission. Burning Smell A burning smell coming from your vehicle is never a good sign. If the odor resembles burnt toast, it could be due to overheating transmission fluid. This often happens when the fluid becomes old, contaminated, or runs low due to a leak. Overheated fluid loses its ability to properly lubricate the transmission, which can lead to severe internal damage. If you detect a burning smell while driving, it's crucial to schedule an inspection as soon as possible. Transmission Repair in Greenwood, IN When you need transmission repair in Greenwood, IN and the surrounding area, contact Kenny’s Transmission at  (317) 762-0389  . At our local transmission shop, we can expertly address your transmission repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call today to make an appointment!
by Kenny’s Transmission 14 January 2025
Transmission fluid plays a vital role in keeping your vehicle's transmission system running smoothly. It lubricates moving parts, cools the system, and enables proper gear shifts. When transmission fluid levels drop, it can cause significant damage to your vehicle if left unaddressed. At Kenny’s Transmission, we can expertly handle issues with transmission fluid. Here are five common signs that your transmission fluid has gotten too low. Delayed or Slipping Gear Shifts One of the most noticeable signs of low transmission fluid is difficulty shifting gears. You may experience delays when switching gears or feel the transmission slipping out of gear while driving. This happens because low fluid levels prevent adequate hydraulic pressure needed for smooth gear transitions. Unusual Noises A well-lubricated transmission should operate quietly. If you hear grinding, whining, or clunking sounds while driving, it could be a sign that your transmission fluid is too low. These noises often indicate that metal components are grinding against each other due to insufficient lubrication. Overheating Transmission Transmission fluid also helps regulate the temperature within the system. Low fluid levels reduce the cooling capacity, causing the transmission to overheat. You might notice a burning smell, which is a red flag that needs to be addressed as soon as possible. Transmission Fluid Leaks If you notice reddish puddles under your vehicle, it’s a strong indication of a transmission fluid leak. Low fluid levels often result from leaks in the transmission pan, seals, or gaskets. Addressing these leaks promptly can help prevent further damage. Erratic or Rough Shifting When transmission fluid is low, you may experience rough or erratic shifting. The vehicle might jerk or hesitate during gear changes, making driving uncomfortable and potentially unsafe. This issue requires immediate attention to prevent long-term damage. Transmission Service in Greenwood, IN For transmission service in Greenwood, IN and the surrounding area, contact Kenny’s Transmission at  (317) 762-0389  . At our local transmission shop, we can expertly address your vehicle’s transmission repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call today to schedule an appointment!
A close up of a cut in half automatic transmission.
by Kenny’s Transmission 11 December 2024
A healthy transmission is essential for the overall performance and longevity of your vehicle. Proper maintenance can prevent costly repairs and help keep your car running smoothly. Here are five tips for maintaining a healthy transmission. Check and Change Transmission Fluid Regularly Transmission fluid plays a critical role in keeping your transmission components lubricated and functioning properly. As it ages, this fluid can degrade, becoming less effective at preventing overheating and wear. It’s important to check the fluid level and condition regularly. If the fluid appears dark or has a burnt smell, it should be changed. Following the manufacturer’s guidelines for fluid replacement will help ensure your transmission stays properly lubricated and protected. Avoid Overloading Your Vehicle Excessive weight can put a significant strain on your transmission, especially if you frequently tow heavy loads or carry more cargo than your vehicle is designed to handle. Overloading can cause the transmission to overheat, leading to premature wear and potential failure. Always adhere to your vehicle's weight limits to reduce the risk of transmission issues. Pay Attention to Warning Signs Your transmission often provides early warnings when something is wrong. Unusual noises, delayed shifting, or slipping gears are all signs that the transmission may need attention. Ignoring these issues can lead to more severe damage. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s best to have the mechanic inspect and diagnose the problem before it escalates. Use the Right Type of Transmission Fluid Not all transmission fluids are the same. Using the incorrect fluid can negatively impact your transmission’s performance and longevity. Always consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual or a trusted mechanic to ensure you’re using the right type of fluid for your specific make and model. Practice Smooth Driving Habits Aggressive driving habits, such as rapid acceleration, hard braking, and frequent gear shifting, can take a toll on your transmission. By driving more smoothly, you reduce the strain on the transmission and minimize wear and tear on its components. Transmission Service in Greenwood, IN When you need transmission service in Greenwood, IN and the surrounding area, contact Kenny’s Transmission at  (317) 762-0389  . Feel free to give us a call today to make an appointment!
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