2023 VIEWER'S CHOICE WINNER: BEST IN AUTO REPAIR
Transmission Service
Your vehicle's transmission serves as the crucial intermediary between your engine's power and the wheels, facilitating the conversion of engine output into forward motion. Its significance cannot be overstated, as it stands as one of the most pivotal components of your vehicle's drivetrain. Smooth and dependable shifting is imperative for optimal performance and driving experience. Even seemingly minor issues within the transmission can swiftly escalate, leading to significant performance degradation and potential mechanical failures if left unaddressed. Therefore, ensuring the proper maintenance and timely resolution of any transmission concerns is essential for the longevity and efficiency of your vehicle.
What's Next?
Give us a call to schedule an appointment and make sure you give us as much detail as possible. This will help us get to the root of the problem quickly and have you back on the road sooner.
Evaluation & Inspection
We will inspect and diagnose your vehicle using specific tests and diagnostic equipment to pinpoint the root problem. We use the same equipment as your OEM so you can rest assured your vehicle diagnosis is accurate.
Authorization
We won't perform any services to your vehicle without your authorization. We will provide a digital inspection report with photos and videos and a detailed estimate so you can make an informed decision.
Render Services
We know it's a hassle to be without your vehicle so we do our best to complete all approved work the same day. If that is not possible it will be communicated to you during the authorization process.
Types of Transmissions
1
Automatic Transmission
This transmission type employs a torque converter, planetary gearset, and clutches or bands to seamlessly shift through a vehicle's forward gears automatically. While primarily automated, certain automatic transmissions offer drivers a degree of manual control beyond selecting between forward, reverse, or neutral modes. These features enable drivers to manually initiate upshifts and downshifts using buttons or paddles located on the steering wheel or gear selector. Such transmissions are often referred to as "shiftable automatic," "Tiptronic," or "autostick."
2
Manual Transmission
In a manual transmission system, the driver engages in a hands-on process of gear selection. This selector allows the driver to manually shift between gears, dictating the vehicle's speed and power output. Additionally, the driver must operate a clutch pedal, typically located to the left of the brake pedal, to facilitate smooth transitions between gears. By depressing the clutch pedal, the driver disengages the transmission from the engine, enabling seamless gear changes. This interactive approach to gear shifting offers drivers greater control over their vehicle's performance
3
Continuously Variable Transmission
A continuously variable transmission (CVT) operates on a fundamentally different principle than traditional transmissions, as it utilizes a continuously variable drive ratio rather than discrete stepped gear ratios. Instead of gears, CVTs employ belts, pulleys, and sensors to seamlessly adjust the transmission's drive ratio, ensuring a smooth acceleration curve without the need for gear shifts. This dynamic adjustment enables the CVT to keep the engine operating within its optimal power range across various driving conditions, enhancing both efficiency and fuel economy.
Why Change my Transmission Fluid?
The necessity for changing transmission fluid primarily revolves around the impact of heat on the transmission system. Heat stands as one of the primary adversaries of transmission fluid, gradually diminishing its efficacy over time. Transmission fluid not only lubricates the internal components but also guards against corrosion and facilitates the operation of clutches responsible for gear shifts. When subjected to excessive heat, the fluid deteriorates, losing its protective and operational qualities.
Various driving conditions can contribute to elevated temperatures, including frequent stop-and-go driving, heavy loads, or towing. Vehicles operating under such "severe service" conditions may require more frequent fluid changes, as outlined in the maintenance schedule. Additionally, as clutch surfaces wear down over time, they generate debris, which is typically trapped by a filter replaced during fluid changes.
Furthermore, low fluid levels can lead to shifting problems, often indicative of a leak rather than fluid depletion through evaporation. Signs of transmission fluid leaks include the presence of pink or red puddles beneath the vehicle.
Addressing these issues through a transmission fluid change, when performed correctly, can mitigate potential transmission problems.
Determining the appropriate timing for fluid changes has historically varied, with factory recommendations spanning intervals from 30,000 to 100,000 miles. However, some newer vehicles tout "lifetime fluid," prompting debate over the implications of never changing transmission fluid. Nonetheless, periodic fluid checks and changes around the 100,000-mile mark are advisable, particularly for long-term vehicle ownership to avert the costly necessity of transmission replacement.
Regarding older vehicles with uncertain service histories, considerations arise regarding the wisdom of changing transmission fluid. If the fluid appears pristine and the transmission functions smoothly, preemptive fluid changes may be prudent. Conversely, if the fluid exhibits signs of degradation—such as discoloration, burnt odors, or metallic particles—it may be best to refrain from changing it. In such cases, worn clutch surfaces may rely on the properties of the old fluid or embedded particles for optimal function, and introducing new fluid could potentially induce slippage. It is best to discuss your reasons for wanting a transmission fluid with your mechanic in a situation such as this.