Everyone is afraid to hear their mechanic say the words “transmission repair” because it often goes hand in hand with expensive price tags. But not all transmission problems are major ones. Many can be fixed with minor adjustments and repairs. When you bring your vehicle in, our technicians will perform a transmission diagnostic procedure that includes:
- Transmission fluid level and condition check
- Differential fluid check when applicable
- A test drive to evaluate various transmission operations
- Several stationary transmission tests while your vehicle is running
- Shift cable or linkage evaluation
- Vacuum checks
- Harness connections and engine mounts check
- Inspection of axles and shafts
- Inspection of U-joints or CV joints
- Wiring inspection
- Pan gasket and fluid retention check
- General inspection of other components
If we can’t find the problem with this level of diagnostics, we’ll employ computer equipment to check for trouble codes that will help us pinpoint what’s wrong. For us, the key is to find the problem and fix only what needs to be fixed, without unneeded costs or additional shop visits. After our ASE-certified technicians find the problem, they’ll advise you on a course of action and get you back on the road.
It’s always a good idea to bring your vehicle in at the first sign of trouble because small transmission problems often become big ones, left unattended.
Transmission service at Autotech also accrues discount points on your ELITE Member Discount Card, so be sure to sign up and start saving. If you don’t have the card, stop by our West Wichita store, and we’ll get you one. It’s free. Learn more.
Symptoms of Transmission Trouble
If you notice your transmission responding or behaving differently in any way, it may be a sign of trouble. Here are some indications that you need transmission repair:
- Low fluid/leaking fluid Have your fluid checked as frequently as your owner’s manual or Autotech mechanic advises. Low transmission fluid can quickly turn into very high costs. If you see red fluid in your garage or on your driveway, you definitely have a leak, which should be taken care of immediately.
- Check engine light is on Sensors from your transmission go directly the vehicle’s computerized control unit. It’s important to deal with a check engine light promptly because it can tip you off to relatively inexpensive problems in the transmission and elsewhere before they become more expensive.
- Whining, clunking or humming under the vehicle This may or may not indicate a transmission problem, but it often does, and it should be checked promptly in either case. The first thing to do is check your transmission fluid level (or bring it by so we can do it). If it’s full, a professional diagnosis will be necessary.
- Burning odor from under the vehicle This can also result from a low fluid level, but it could mean something much more serious, and should be professionally inspected.
- Slipping in and out of gear This is definitely a safety issue and probably a more serious problem. You may want to consider having the vehicle towed to us for a comprehensive inspection.
- Delayed or unresponsive gear shift This can be a fairly cheap repair in some cases, but you’ll need a professional evaluation to pinpoint the problem.
- Shaking or grinding while in gear This problem may start small and become more noticeable over time. It could mean several things, and most of them will get worse (and more expensive) if you don’t deal with it.
Your transmission is a complex system that has to be full of fluid and working smoothly at all times, or you’ll run into safety issues and potentially huge repair bills. Give us a call at the first sign of trouble, or stop by for a routine evaluation to make sure your transmission is in tip-top shape.
