pause before car moves after shifting to drive · delayed shift into drive or reverse
After shifting from park into drive or reverse, there is a noticeable pause of a second or more before the car actually starts to move.
Note whether the delay happens only when the engine is cold, only when hot, or both - this narrows down the likely cause significantly.
Usually safe short-term, but this is a known early warning sign of transmission wear, so do not ignore it for too long.
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Descriptions are for guidance only and do not replace a workshop inspection. If you are ever unsure whether it is safe to keep driving, pull over in a safe spot.
Transmission slipping
SeriousThe engine RPM rises but the car does not accelerate proportionally, or the transmission seems to hesitate or slip between gears.
Transmission won't shift gears
SeriousThe transmission is stuck in one gear and will not shift up or down as it normally would, or refuses to engage a gear at all.
Whining noise when accelerating
WarningA rising, whining or whirring noise that gets louder or higher-pitched as you accelerate, and quiets down when you let off the gas.
Burning smell coming from the transmission
SeriousA sharp, burnt smell (often described as a burnt toast or hot metal smell) noticeable after driving, particularly linked to the transmission area.
