Transmission repair is a complex subject, and one that many people dread because of the cost associated with it. However, failing to get your transmission repaired can cause more damage in the long run and end up costing you even more money, making it an important part of car maintenance. To ensure that you identify any potential issues before they become serious, it’s important to be aware of early warning signs and options for when your transmission needs repair.
What are the Symptoms of Transmission Issues?
Delayed or Slipping Gear Shifts: One of the most common symptoms of transmission trouble is a noticeable delay or slipping when shifting gears. This happens when the car’s gears are no longer properly engaging or disengaging, making it difficult to shift into gear.
Fluid Leaks: If you are noticing a puddle of red fluid underneath your vehicle, this is likely a sign that there is a leak in your car’s transmission system. As the fluid levels drop, so does your car’s ability to effectively transfer power from the engine to the wheels.
Loud Noises: If you begin to hear loud clunking noises coming from beneath the hood whenever you accelerate or decelerate, this could indicate that there are problems with linkages within your automatic transmission system. The best way to address this issue is by getting it checked at an auto shop as soon as possible.
Burning Smell: If something smells strange while driving and there appears to be smoke coming from under the hood, then this could be caused by a burning smell which would indicate overheating in your transmission system. This means that there is too much friction occurring within its components and needs immediate attention before further damage can occur.
Options for Transmission Repair
The first step when trying to repair any type of transmission problem is to take it into an automotive shop for diagnosis and evaluation. Once mechanics have determined what kind of repair is needed, they will usually recommend one (or more) of these options:
Rebuild: A rebuild involves disassembling and replacing all worn-out parts within the existing unit, allowing mechanics to restore proper function without having to replace any major components in their entirety (such as clutches). It requires significantly less labor time than a replacement would but may require additional parts like seals or gaskets depending on what exactly needs replaced within the unit itself. Rebuilding often proves more cost-effective than purchasing an entirely new unit, however, this method may not always be viable due its complexity or the age or condition of existing parts being used during repairs.
Replacement: When replacing an entire unit rather than just repairing individual parts, customers will often opt for either remanufactured transmissions (which come with warranty) or used transmissions from salvage yards (which don’t carry warranties). These options allow for quick installation but also carry a greater risk due lack of knowledge about past service history—a concern especially when purchasing used units from third-party sellers who don’t offer valid warranties on their products. Thus, customers should weigh the costs versus the risks carefully when going forward into repairs.
Fluid Exchange Service: A fluid exchange service changes out old transmission fluid (ATF) with new ATF which can help keep things running smoothly as well as help lubricate internal components which may have been compromised due to low levels or quality of fluid still inside the unit prior to fluid exchanges being done. In some cases, this type of service alone can do wonders restoring lost performance back into failing systems, if done correctly. It’s important that only certified technicians perform such services since improper execution can lead to further complications down the road if not executed properly.
Bypass Filters Change Out Service: Many modern vehicles now come equipped with bypass filters which help extend the life of transmissions by filtering out impurities like dirt & debris, and particles that otherwise have no place in this internal system. Over time, however, these filters will eventually become clogged, reducing efficiency & causing further stress onto the components.
Automatic Transmission Relearning Processes: After major servicing, cars that contain “learning programs” designed to memorize certain settings regarding ways the engine interacts with the transmission ultimately control how vehicle performs while driving around town streets and highways alike. Depending on the severity of the damage and whether software resetting needs to be performed after completion, either step calibration process will typically need to be done in order to bring back optimal levels of operation.
With so many different options available today regarding types of repairs someone might face, understanding each option becomes critical to sorting through what works best for an individual situation. It is wise to seek professional advice prior to deciding which route to take to avoid costly mistakes in the future.