Automatic transmission fault diagnosis (Renault Clio 1)

Note: Due to the complexity of the automatic transmission, diagnosis and repair of this unit should be entrusted to a specialist. For problems other than those described below, the vehicle should be taken to the dealer service department or an automatic transmission repair specialist. Don't rush to remove the transmission until you've determined the cause of the problem, as most tests are performed on the unit while it's installed in the vehicle.

Leakage

• Transmission fluid is usually dark in color. If there are leaks, this fluid should not be confused with engine oil, which can easily get into the transmission due to air flow.
• To determine the source of the leak, first clean the transmission housing and surrounding surfaces of dirt and soot using chemical cleaners or steam. Let the engine and transmission run (when driving at low speed), then the air flow will be weak and the oil will be scattered near the source of the leak. Locate the leak from underneath the vehicle. The most common leaks are in the following areas:
• Pallet (Section 1 and 7B).
• Oil level dipstick tube (Section 1 and 7B).
• Transmission Cooling System Fasteners/Pipes (Section 7B).

The transmission fluid is brown or smells burnt

• The transmission fluid level is low or the fluid needs to be replaced (Section 1).

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Common gear selection problems

• In the Section 7B describes how to check and adjust the shift cable on automatic transmissions. Below are some common problems that can be caused by improper cable adjustment:
• The engine starts in gears other than "N" (neutral) or "P" (parking).
• The indicator on the gear selector lever indicates a gear other than the one actually engaged.
• The car is moving in "neutral" or "park".
• Difficulty shifting or errors when changing gear.

The transmission does not engage a lower gear (Kickdown mode) when the gas pedal is fully depressed

• Low transmission fluid level (Section 1 and 7B).
• Incorrect adjustment of the shift cable (Section 7B).

The engine does not start in any gear or starts in a gear other than "neutral" or "parking"

• The starter interlock switch is not adjusted correctly (Section 7B).
• Incorrect adjustment of the shift cable (Section 7B).

The transmission slips, shifts gears late, makes noise, or does not move the vehicle in forward or reverse gears

• There are many reasons why these problems may arise, but you should limit yourself to just adjusting the fluid level. Before handing over the vehicle to a specialist, check the fluid level and its condition as described in Section 1, or 7B. Bring the fluid level back to normal or replace it and its filter. If the problem persists, professional help is needed.