Firestone tech standing in front of car

DRIVETRAIN Repair Services

Maintain your car or truck's power with drivetrain services from Firestone Complete Auto Care.

FIND YOUR NEAREST FIRESTONE COMPLETE AUTO CARE

Find and select a store location near you. Enter your zip code or city and state to search for nearby stores.

Stores Near You

Store Locations Map

COMMON SIGNS OF DRIVETRAIN PROBLEMS

Your car won’t engage while in gear

If your vehicle has a delayed response when being put in drive or reverse, or if it doesn’t engage at all when in drive or reverse, you could be experiencing transmission issues. This can indicate a problem with the gear selector linkage, a mechanical issue with the transmission if it won’t go into gear, or possibly the transmission fluid.

You feel vibrations or shaking while in gear

Many things can cause vibration in your vehicle, but vibrations along with other drivetrain problem symptoms could mean a bad or failing differential, a failing C/V Axle, or worn-out U-joints.

It feels like the gears are slipping

If your vehicle is slipping in and out of gear while you’re driving, it could be an indication that your transmission is slipping and there’s a greater malfunction in your drivetrain system.

You hear irregular sounds like humming, clunking, clicking, or whining

Strange noises could indicate a bad CV-joint, driveshaft damage, or a failing transmission. If you notice clicking noises while turning, it could be that your CV-joints need replacement or repair. Bring your vehicle to your local Firestone Complete Auto Care to confirm. Driveshaft damage will typically make a loud clunking noise while shifting.

There's leaking or low transmission fluid

If you’re seeing red fluids on the pavement after you park (color may vary by manufacturer), it could be an indication that there’s a leak in your transmission that needs repair. If your transmission runs without adequate fluid, it can overheat and fail.

You smell burning

If you pull the transmission dipstick and the fluid smells burnt or there's a burning smell coming from the clutch on a manual transmission, your transmission or clutch may be overheating. It could be that your transmission fluid is low or that the fluid’s lubricating abilities have diminished with age. Without immediate maintenance, this problem could lead to a transmission breakdown.

The ABS, traction control, brake, or check engine light is on

Your drivetrain is loaded with sensors that can signal a problem to your indicator lights —sometimes well before you notice an issue in your driving experience. If your indicator lights are turning on, it’s always a good idea to have your vehicle checked out at your nearest Firestone Complete Auto Care.

Auto Care Tips & Advice

Filter By:

image of a spark plug
Maintenance

Everything You Need to Know About Spark Plugs

Learn about spark plugs, from how they function to when they need replacement. Get tips on spotting issues early to keep your engine performing at its best.


Read More
Man driving a car looking surprised whilst clenching the steering wheel with both hands
Maintenance

Can Suspension Problems Cause Braking Issues? How These Two Systems Are Linked

Your brakes may call the shots, but suspension sets the stage. See how one weak link in your ride’s rhythm can leave you stopping short on safety.


Read More
Smoke coming from the engine
Maintenance

What Causes Head Gasket Failure?

Is white smoke coming from your tailpipe? You may have a blown head gasket. Learn what causes head gasket failure, how to prevent it, and how much repair costs.


Read More
LOAD 3 MORE
SHOWING 6 OF 12
View More Articles

Find Store

Find and select a store location near you. Enter your zip code or city and state to search for nearby stores.

Stores Near You

Store Locations Map