Q: Transmission making a ticking noise

asked by on February 11, 2016

The transmission in my car is making a ticking noise and sometimes shifts roughly. I just had it serviced, and I am getting no warning lights, and the diagnostic shows no codes that could tell me what the problem is.

Car is making a noise Inspection $94.99 - $114.99 Get a Quote

Hi. Problems with transmissions usually don’t stay the same, they get worse. It’s hard to say what the ticking noise is. Is it at idle or in motion? A ticking at idle could be a cracked flex plate (flywheel), or loose bolts. There’s a TSB for loose ignition coil bracket bolts. Rough shifting can be a number of things. Codes will set for slipping, or circuit problems, but hard shifts the computer really can’t detect. It could be an internal problem like a broken accumulator spring, or it could be a loose or broken engine or transmission mount. If you need further assistance, I recommend you have a certified technician, like one from YourMechanic, inspect your vehicle’s noise and repair any other failing component on your vehicle.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

Crank no start - 2003 Dodge Grand Caravan
Hi. Some of the codes you have will cause drivability problems and may cause the van not to start. The code p0118 deals with your coolant temperature sensor and a bad coolant temperature sensor will cause the car not to...
check engine light and car shuddering
Hi there: After looking into the first error code you posted, the vibration and shaking issues on your VW are most likely caused by a vacuum leak. The P2279 OBD-II code (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/p2279-obd-ii-trouble-code-intake-air-system-leak-by-jay-safford) indicates that the ECU has detected a vacuum...
2012 Chevy Equinox with 72k miles vs 2006-07 Honda Pilot, Toyota 4runner, or Toyota Highlander with 100k to 150k miles
Hello. If the vehicles you are look at have been properly maintained then there should be only a few repairs to anticipate. Along with regular oil changes, vehicles of that mileage will likely need brakes, transmission fluid services, and depending...
2006 nissan pathfinder SE is overheating. I've replaced the radiator and thermostat still over heating. However, when I drive te
Hi there. It's quite possible that you either have an obstruction in the coolant system (perhaps the heater core if your heater is also not functioning correctly), or you have air bubbles trapped inside the coolant lines. The best way...
Car cranks over but wont start. Looking for some answers maybe...
There are several possible causes for a vehicle to crank and not start (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/car-is-not-starting-inspection). There could be a bad fuel pump, faulty plugs, bad timing belt/chain, faulty ignition, failed camshaft/crankshaft sensor, or any number of other possible causes. It would...
After some repairs my 2007 Kia Sportage continues to overheat.
Hello. If the system is not leaking anymore, and if the thermostat is new then you have another issue going on with the vehicle. This may be an issue with the a clog in the radiator, a coolant flow issue,...
i think its the water pump
Be sure the drain plug on the bottom of the radiator is closed and secure. There are a variety of potential leak points in the cooling system. If, using a mirror, you can see coolant leaking out of the water...

Related articles

The Best Used Cars to Buy If You’re a Caterer
If If you are in the catering business, you need a reliable vehicle that will provide you with what you need to transport your food, linens, and other supplies. Generally speaking, you're better off buying gently used, because you will...
How to Buy a Good Quality Drivetrain
Drivetrains include the transmission, driveshaft, and axles. Buy an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) drivetrain with a drivetrain warranty.
Symptoms of a Bad or Failing Universal Joint (U-Joint)
Common signs of a faulty u-joint include a squeaking noise, clunking sound when shifting, vibrations in the car, and transmission fluid leaking.