Can a Rear End Collision Cause Transmission Problems?

Here in the US, millions of car accidents happen every year, nearly half of which are rear-end collisions. Out of the many different kinds of accidents that can occur in your car, a rear-end collision seems like it would do the least amount of damage to your car. Most people would assume that the majority of the damage would be superficial, mainly to the structure of the car. But can a car accident cause transmission damage?

Believe it or not, transmission damage from a rear-end collision is not that uncommon.

Some cars are more susceptible to rear-end transmission damage, such as those with rear or all-wheel drive because the car’s transmission is actually a bit further back in the vehicle. Cars with front-wheel drive are not particularly vulnerable to this, as their transmission is generally placed at the front of the vehicle. Rear-end transmission issues may not become obvious right away, however, there are a few things that you can look out for that might alert you to any transmission damage.

One of the most easily identifiable signs of transmission damage from rear-end collisions is difficulty switching gears. You might hear a loud grinding sound while trying to do this or the transmission itself may also get stuck in the wrong gear. This specific malfunction could cause a chain reaction in the vehicle, as some of the metal parts and machinery break off and become lodged in other parts of the car’s system, such as the cooling system.

You can also keep an eye out for transmission fluid that may be leaking from your car. If you see a puddle in your parking spot or trailing behind your car, this could be a sign that your transmission was cracked or damaged in the rear-end collision. If the transmission is leaking, it’s important to take your car to the shop straight away as the longer you wait, the more damage will be done to your vehicle and, thus, the more expensive the repairs will be.

A few less-specific signs of rear-end transmission damage could include a burnt smell or strange noises coming from the engine, your check engine light turning on, or a sudden drop in transmission fluid levels. These signs could mean many different things and so, if these are the only differences that you notice in your car, we’d recommend bringing it into your auto repair shop for a post-collision inspection.

Transmission Damage From Rear-End Collision

AC Transmission provides a variety of services including rear-end collision damage, transmission, and body repair. As an ASE and ATRA-certified business with more than sixty years of combined experience, there’s no better place in the Golden area to have your car serviced and repaired. Call our shop today at (303) 279-7033 to schedule your appointment!

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