What are the symptoms of a bad transmission?

Many car owners find it hard to put out money for transmission service when it appears that their vehicle is running just fine.  Though, you could be paying out more in the long run with an expensive transmission repair that could possibly have been prevented with a timely transmission service. Follow the service schedule listed in your owner’s manual to keep your vehicle running strong.

Do you want to know what are the symptoms of a bad transmission?  Here are 4 common issues that you will start to notice:

1. Shifting is delayed. 
2. Difficulty and/or noisy shifting.
3. Slipping in and out of gear. 
4. Overheating and burning smell.

Here are a few of the issues that your auto mechanic will inspect if transmission repair is needed:

• Faulty sensors – Bad sensors will send inaccurate information to the transmission causing issues shifting, such as gears slipping while shifting.
• Cleaning – Cleaning the transmission unit means removing it from the vehicle so that each component can be checked, cleaned, and replaced as compulsory.
• Faulty electrical system – Wiring circuits, fuses, and connections will be inspected and faulty components replaced.
• Replace transmission unit – If the old unit has been completely damaged internally, a transmission rebuild or a remanufactured unit might be recommended.  

Transmission service is usually relatively simple and inexpensive when compared to a major transmission repair.  This service can include the following:

• Fluid drained and replaced 
• Filter and seals replaced
• Codes and electronics inspected

Have questions about what are the symptoms of a bad transmission?  Call our ASE Certified Technicians at Auto Max of Oregon for more information about transmission service and to make an appointment. Our auto repair shop proudly serves vehicle owners in Canby, OR, and the surrounding areas.

How Do You Know If You Need Transmission Fluid?

You should first understand the two main purposes of what transmission fluid is and what it does.  First, it lubricates all the surfaces and components of the transmission system to help prevent excessive friction and overheating. Secondly, it transmits power from the engine to the transmission.  

Theoretically, transmission fluid never needs to be changed.  Though, some auto mechanics do not agree with this concept.  Many manufacturers recommend changing the transmission fluid at about 100,000 miles.  Some auto mechanics say that it should be changed at least every 50,000 miles.  Read your owner’s manual and discuss your concerns with your mechanic.

Though, it is a fact that transmission fluid does deteriorate over time.  There are certain driving conditions, such as frequent stop-and-go city driving, hauling heavy loads, or trailer towing, raise the transmission’s operating temperature and put more strain on the transmission and the fluid.   Also, if the transmission is wearing out, a leak could be developing.  

Transmission fluid can come in several colors, but it is most often red in color.  It will become darker as it deteriorates. You may also start to notice a burned odor.  This could be an indication that the fluid wants to be changed or that the transmission is developing issues.

How do you know if you need transmission fluid replaced?  Here are five common issues that could develop:

1. Grinding or squealing noises while shifting
2. Shifting is difficult
3. Inexplicable surging
4. Gears slipping
5. Delay in movement after shifting

It is a good idea to have your transmission fluid checked about once a month.  If there are any of the signs listed above, especially if you have already topped off the transmission fluid, you may be facing a costly transmission repair. 

Are you wondering how do you know if you need transmission fluid?  Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Auto Max of Oregon today for more information about transmission repair and to make an appointment. Our auto repair shop proudly serves vehicle owners in Canby, OR and surrounding areas.

Are you wondering when should transmission fluid be changed?

Just what is transmission fluid, you ask?  It is a slippery liquid that lubricates all the surfaces and components of the transmission system to prevent excessive friction and overheating.  It also serves as a viscous fluid that transmits power from the engine to the transmission.  

Theoretically, transmission fluid can to remain in your vehicle without changing it, although mechanics will tell you that it should be changed about every 50,000 miles.  Given enough time however, your transmission will start to wear out and the fluid can lose its effectiveness.  If it has been a while since you had a transmission service, or maybe never, here are a few signs of transmission issues to watch out for:

1. Delayed Shifting.  There may be a temporary delay after you move the gear stick to reverse or drive. The gear change cannot be activated immediately if there isn’t enough pressure. 
2. Difficult or Erratic Shifting.  If there is a lot of dirt or residue in the transmission fluid, the gears will either change too fast or too slow. Other symptoms include abrupt up/down shifts, unusually high RPMs before a shift, erratic shifting, and groaning or grinding noise coming from the transmission.  
3. Gear Slippage.  After changing gears, it seems to fall back out of that gear. The friction material on the clutches and transmission bands are no lengthier able to securely engage a gear. 
4. Transmission Overheats.  If you notice shifting issues along with an overheated transmission, pullover instantly and let everything cool down. If the temperatures get to be over 240°F, serious damage inside the transmission unit could be taking place.

Has your transmission fluid inspected on a regular basis? If you put a lot of miles on your vehicle or tow heavy loads, then you should have it checked at least every 2 weeks. Otherwise, once a month is sufficient.

Wondering when should transmission fluid be changed?  Call our ASE Certified Technicians at Auto Max of Oregon today for more information about transmission repair and to make an appointment. Our auto repair shop proudly serves vehicle owners in Canby, OR and surrounding areas.