Cadillac Transmission Repair

Cadillac mechanic repairing a Cadillac transmission

The transmission in your Cadillac is not only responsible for allowing you to go forward and in reverse, but also allows your vehicle to speed up and slow down.

Our article takes a look at some useful information about the types of transmissions fitted in the various Cadillac models and signs to look out for when things do go wrong.

Continue reading as we share details about Cadillac transmission repair.

Cadillac Transmission Types

Over the years, Cadillac has used various transmission types in its vehicles. We share some details about each of these transmission types.

Automatic Transmissions

Automatic transmissions, as the name suggests, shift gears automatically for the driver without the need for a clutch. Typically, these transmissions make use of a torque converter that connects the engine and the transmission.

Hydraulic fluid in the torque converter acts to transfer power from the engine to the transmission, allowing for smooth gear changes and acting like a clutch.

Manual Transmissions

Traditional manual transmissions are connected to the engine via a clutch. The clutch is basically two spinning plates that, when coupled, transfer power to the manual transmission.

When the driver presses down on the clutch pedal, this causes the clutch plates to disengage, allowing the transmission to be manually shifted into another gear to change gear ratios to speed up or slow down.

Continuously Variable Transmissions (CVTs)

A Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) is a form of automatic transmission offering smooth, seamless acceleration without actually shifting between different gear ratios.

The CVT uses stepped shifts rather than the fixed ratios of a traditional automatic transmission. The CVT is operated via pulleys and a belt or chain that allows the CVT to offer an infinite range of gear ratios.

No current Cadillac models are equipped with a CVT.

As of 2023, all Cadillac transmissions are automatic, using traditional fixed gear ratios with only two models making use of a manual transmission, namely the CT4-V Blackwing and the CT5-V Blackwing.

Possible Transmission Problems

Generally, modern automatic transmissions are pretty much hassle-free as long as they are properly maintained with the correct servicing and not subjected to abuse.

When things do, however, go wrong, there are a few problems to keep an eye out for that might require Cadillac transmission repair.

Slipping Gears

Your Cadillac slipping gears with an automatic transmission can happen when the transmission fails to properly engage a gear and stay in that selected gear. This problem can be easily spotted when the engine revs without any corresponding acceleration.

Common causes of this issue can include low fluid levels, worn or damaged internal transmission components, or a faulty torque converter or solenoids.

Delayed Shifting

Delayed shifting in an automatic transmission can occur when your Cadillac displays a noticeable delay when shifting between gears or after having shifted a gear.

The noticeable pause before starting to move or engaging the new gear can be the result of a number of problems, such as internal transmission issues, electronic control unit malfunctions, or a lack of correct maintenance.

Unusual Noises

Unusual noises from your car are always alarming, and noises from an automatic transmission are no different.

Unusual noises can point to a number of problems, including a loose belt or serious issues like worn-out bearings. Noises that can be experienced are unusual clunking, grinding, whining, or humming, which may occur when shifting gears, accelerating, or braking.

Fluid Leaks

Red transmission fluid puddles under your car, where it has been parked, are a problem that needs to be fixed promptly.

Fluid leakage is most commonly caused by worn seals or gaskets, particularly the transmission pan gasket.

If left unchecked, fluid leakage can lead to further problems like low fluid levels causing gear slippage, dashboard warning lights coming on, and the possibility of expensive transmission damage.

Signs That Your Transmission Needs Repair

Following on from the possible transmission problems shared, owners should be alert to the following signs that their transmission needs repair.

Warning Lights On The Dashboard

The transmission warning light in a Cadillac can be triggered by various issues, including low transmission fluid, overheating, or failure of internal transmission components. Oftentimes, this is accompanied by a check engine light.

Difficulty In Engaging Gears

When the transmission no longer changes gears correctly or is struggling to engage gears when moving the shift selector, then it's time to seek some repairs.

Burning Smell From The Transmission

An overheating transmission or worn and damaged internals may lead to burning smells being emitted from the transmission. This should be treated as an urgent Cadillac transmission repair.

Fluid Color And Consistency Changes

Regular checking of your transmission fluid levels should include checking for color changes and consistency.

New or still serviceable fluid is typically a dark red, but the fluid can darken to a darker brick red or become blackened as it ages and is contaminated, indicating that the fluid needs to be replaced.

Transmission Maintenance Practices

Your Cadillac's transmission must be regularly checked with the replacement of fluids.

The transmission fluid should be changed every 30,000 miles or 30 months, or as shared above, when the fluid color is dark or burnt.

Maintaining correct transmission fluid levels allows continued smooth shifting and prevents costly repair bills.

When To Seek Professional Transmission Repair

If your Cadillac starts exhibiting any of the aforementioned signs, such as slipping gears and delayed shifting, then it's time to seek professional repair.

Automatic transmission repair is beyond the capabilities of most DIY mechanics and requires professional repair and expertise only found with a suitably qualified mechanic or a Cadillac Service Center.