Transmission Services
Just like you switch out your engine oil on a regular basis, it is important to have a transmission service if you want to keep your vehicle maintained. This process involves taking out the old transmission fluid and then adding in new transmission fluid. If it is time for your vehicle to undergo this service, get in touch with Ethan’s Honest Auto to see how we can help.
Why Do You Need Transmission Service?
When you get rid of the old transmission fluid, you are also getting rid of any buildup that has accumulated as well. That build up can cause problems if it is left there too long; for example, it can contaminate the fluid and cause problems for the transmission. If the situation is not addressed, you may wind up having to switch out your transmission completely. That is a huge expense and one that you certainly want to avoid.
When Should You Change Your Transmission Fluid?
The type of car that you have factors heavily into the answer to this question. There are some vehicles that need to have this service performed every 30,000 miles. Other vehicles can go 100,000 miles without having the service. Many newer automobiles were designed with fluid that can last for many years. Therefore, there is not just one answer to this question.
If your car has a continuously variable transmission, however, you will have to switch out the fluid. Read through your owner’s manual to get the specifics for your vehicle. Make sure you write down when you have service, so that you can maintain a specific schedule. Car maintenance can greatly extend the life of your vehicle when done properly.
How Do You Know If You Have A Transmission Leak?
Look for a puddle of red liquid. It will usually pool toward the front half of the car. If you see it, you must take your car in to get looked at right away.
What Takes Place During A Complete Transmission Service?
You can expect the following to happen when you bring your car in for service:
- Cleaning/Replacement of screen or filter
- Cleaning of pan
- Installation of pan gasket
- Removal of old fluid
- Installation of new fluid
There may be a few additional steps taken, depending on the make and model of your vehicle and where you go for service.
When your fluid is changed, there is less heat and better lubrication. Your transmission is able to function more effectively, which means it should last longer and need fewer repairs (if any). It costs a lot of money to fix a transmission, which is why it is important to do everything you can to ensure that this part of the car is running as efficiently as possible.
If you have questions about your transmission, get in touch with us today. We’re happy to talk to you about your specific vehicle and let you know what we can do to help you. We’re committed to providing you with honest, reliable service that you can count on. Our customers are our priority!
FAQs About Transmission Service
Your transmission is a crucial system, so you need to be on the lookout for any problems. Signs of a transmission problem on both a manual and automatic vehicle include the following.
- Fluid leaks.
- Slipping gears.
- Grinding and clunking noises when driving and especially when shifting gears.
- A burning smell.
- Delays when shifting gears.
One of the most common types of transmission problems is low, dirty, or leaking transmission fluid. Low fluid may occur because of a leak. It may also have been a long time since you changed the transmission fluid, which can cause the fluid to get dirty.
Dirty transmission fluid is not nearly as efficient as new transmission fluid. It can even cause other failures in the transmission. It is important to have your transmission fluid changed every 30,000 miles.
The transmission is an extremely important part of your vehicle. It is the system that powers your vehicle’s wheels. Without the transmission, your vehicle will not move.
There are two types of transmissions: manual and automatic. In manual transmissions, you manually shift between the gears. The gears allow your vehicle to accelerate at different speeds, which governs how hard the vehicle works at a given speed. Automatic transmission vehicles do the shifting for you. The car changes gears, and you do not have to do anything. This is a lot easier for drivers, but there are more parts to potentially break in these types of transmission.
Transmission fluid is pink or red to orangish-brown in color. If you see a puddle under your vehicle of this color, then you likely have a transmission fluid leak. The leak could also be power steering fluid or coolant. So, if you notice a leak, make sure to bring your vehicle into Ethan’s Honest Automotive right away.
To give your mechanic accurate information about the leak, you may want to put cardboard under your vehicle overnight. Doing so will help you gauge the color and volume of the leak. This is important information for your mechanic because it tells them where to begin looking for a leak.
It is important to check your transmission fluid regularly. You will find different recommendations for how often to do this. The best place to find an absolute answer is your vehicle’s manual. It will tell you your manufacturer’s recommendations about checking your transmission fluid.
A good general rule is to check your transmission fluid every month or at least every other month. Checking your transmission fluid is easy if you have an automatic. Just locate the dipstick. Pull out the dipstick and check the level of the fluid. If it is low, you will need to bring your vehicle in for a transmission fluid change. For manual vehicles, stick your finger into the filler plug hole. If there is fluid on your finger when you pull it out, your transmission fluid level is fine.
Other services provided by Ethan's include:
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Windshield Wipers/Washer Fluid |
Wheel Bearings |
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Differential Services |
Coolant Flushes |
Struts |
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Tune Ups |
Shocks |
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Timing Belts |
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U-Joints |
Ball Joints |
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4-Wheel Drive |