Tips To Diagnose Sticking Transmission Solenoids in European Cars

Nowadays, high-end European cars are coming equipped with highly advanced equipment that helps in their smooth running and better performance. The transmission solenoids are one such important component that play a crucial role in the optimal shifting of the gears in the automatic transmission system of European cars.

In fact, issues with the functioning of the transmission solenoids in European cars can make it very difficult for drivers to drive their cars. That is why it is essential to diagnose the problem with the functioning of the shift solenoids early on so that steps can be initiated to address the problem before it completely damages the transmission system.

In this article, we will discuss the tips to diagnose stuck transmission solenoids in European cars.

Inspect the Transmission Wiring Harness

Whenever you are taking steps to diagnose sticking transmission solenoids in your vehicle, you must start with a visual inspection of the transmission wiring harness in your car. You must inspect the wiring harness for any signs of physical damages likes cuts, cracks, or frayed wires.

In addition to that, you need to inspect the connectors that are connected to the solenoids and Transmission Control Module (TCM) in your vehicle, as they are prone to issues whenever the shift solenoids encounter problems with their functioning.

Furthermore, if you come across corrosion on the transmission wiring harness and its connections, or the pins appear to be loose, then it is the primary reason behind the sticking shift solenoid in your vehicle. You should get in touch with a certified auto repair shop to help fix the damage to the shift solenoids or replace them if the issues can’t be fixed.

Gear Shifting Problems

The transmission shift solenoid plays a stellar role in the smooth gear shifting process of your automatic European car. Now, due to the malfunctioning shift solenoids, you are going to encounter harsh or jerky shifting when your vehicle shifts gears.

Moreover, even if your high-end car shifts into gear, you will also observe that there is considerable delay when your vehicle tries to shift into drive or reverse. In addition to that, some drivers report experiencing stuck gear issues or their vehicle refusing to shift into certain gears when running.

This is when you will experience your engine’s RPM increasing without any considerable change in the speed of the vehicle. Often, you will find that your high-end car enters "limp mode" in situations like these to save the engine from any serious damage.

At times, drivers might also encounter transmission slipping problems, indicating something is seriously wrong with the shift solenoids that needs to be fixed quickly.

Transmission Fluid Checking

Whenever there is anything wrong with the functioning of the transmission system components, including the shift solenoids, you must take a look at the transmission fluid in your car. You can make use of the dipstick to check the fluid level in your car, and in case of any doubt, you can refer to your owner’s manual for the details.

Furthermore, you should not only limit yourself to checking the level of the fluid but also have a look at the condition of the fluid because the color of the transmission fluid under normal circumstances should appear bright red in color; however, if you come across dark brown or black color fluid with a burnt smell, then it indicates serious contamination and damage to the transmission.

Now, if you are experiencing minor sticking problems in your vehicle, then going for a complete transmission fluid flush and filter replacement is going to help resolve the problem.

Examine Transmission Control Module

At times, issues with the functioning of the transmission control module (TCM) can manifest in the form of transmission solenoid issues in your European cars. You must first look for any signs of physical damage or burnt components in your TCM.

In addition to that, advanced diagnostic tools can help in diagnosing underlying issues with the TCM that are hard to detect in the physical examination process. Now, if the problems in the shift solenoids are caused by a failing TCM, then you must get your TCM replaced as soon as possible.

Finally

These are some of the ways to help detect issues with the functioning of the transmission shift solenoids in your European car. The moment you experience problems in changing the gears, you must reach out to a certified auto repair shop to get your shift solenoids examined and replaced if necessary.

Protech Automotive Service is a leading European auto maintenance & repair facility located in Johnston. We have years of experience in looking after high-end cars like Audi, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Mini, Porsche, and Volkswagen.