In order for your vehicle to work properly, it has to have a viable transmission. A vehicle’s transmission carries power from the engine to the drive axle. Some vehicles can have minor transmission problems, while others need an outright replacement.
Transmission Fluids
The transmission uses fluid, aptly called “transmission fluid,” in order to stay properly lubricated. When’s the last time yours was checked and/or changed? Typically, mechanics will change fluids every two years or 30,000 miles. If and when you have “low transmission fluid,” you’re in danger of damaging your transmission, so avoid that if possible.
Transmission fluid helps lubricate gears. If there’s not enough fluid, those gears could grind together. Then they overheat and fail.
Can you just use any transmission fluid for your vehicle? Well, just like there are different types of oil for vehicles, there are different transmission fluids available on the market. Check to see what your vehicle manufacturer recommends so you’re using the proper fluid.
Transmission Issues
Now how would you even know you have a transmission issue? What are some of the signs to notice? Well, if there’s a burning smell coming from under the hood, that’s not good. It could be that your transmission fluid is low, overheating, and burning! If you notice strange noises, especially a “clunking” noise when you shift gears, that could be a transmission issue. Also listen for unusual hums or whining sounds. When you move your vehicle from its parking spot and notice a red colored stain or dark spot where the vehicle was, that could be leaking transmission fluid. Finally, if gears aren’t engaging and you go to shift but it won’t, or there’s hesitation, that could be a transmission problem.
Common Transmission Repairs
What are some of the common transmission repair services performed by a service shop like AV Bumper to Bumper in Lancaster, California?
A transmission fluid change can be done, whereas a full fluid exchange and filter change is performed following the specifications recommended by the vehicle’s manufacturer. You can also opt for a transmission flush, which is a repair that involves flushing out sludge and grime from your transmission. How does this work? The mechanic will remove old oil and then run new oil and cleaning solutions through the transmission, and this helps unlodge old debris to “get it out.” Afterward, the transmission gets filled with new oil.
When a transmission no longer functions and repairs wouldn’t make sense, then it’s time for a rebuild or replacement. Is this expensive? Yes. But, without it, a vehicle won’t function as intended.
Transmission repairs might cost a couple hundred dollars, whereas replacement might run between $1800 and $3400. Did you know that manual transmissions cost less to repair than automatic ones? Standard, domestic model transmissions are cheaper to fix than those on imported or luxury models. Of course the severity of the damage will help determine the overall cost of repairs.
Should you decide to have your transmission rebuilt, which is an option, know that it’s a very labor-intensive job. The mechanic has to disassemble the transmission. The fluid has to be changed. “Trouble codes” are checked– you could have an issue with your computer system, by the way. Sensors may be replaced. The vehicle may get a test drive and inspection, too. This is all done before the transmission gets rebuilt!
Can the average person do transmission work themselves, avoiding a visit to the mechanic? Well, with modern vehicles, this is not recommended. Just accessing the transmission generally requires ramps, jack stands or a lift. Getting to the fill plug is a chore that requires both patience and dexterity. Meanwhile, most modern cars have transmissions that require a special computer to “read” temperature or other parameters.
Do you worry you might have a transmission issue? In Lancaster, CA, bring your vehicle to AV Bumper to Bumper for transmission repair and services. See this page for details. AV Bumper to Bumper is located at 44559 N. Division St. in Lancaster, CA, and open weekdays and on Saturdays. For more info or to make an appointment, call 661-949-1999.
