Transmission Service
Why is Transmission Service Important
Transmissions are one of the core components of your vehicle. It’s what takes the power from your engine and applies it to the road. So you can imagine with such an important job, even the smallest of issues can be noticeable. While it might be tempting to forgo transmission service due to its high cost, letting small problems linger can turn them into potentially catastrophic for your transmission.
What is a Transmission Service
Like any other part of your car, transmissions require attention occasionally, even if they haven’t had any major issues. A transmission service consists of flushing and replacing the transmission fluid, as well as making sure all the other parts of it are buttoned up nicely and not worn down.
The time between transmission services varies greatly by the make and model, but a general rule of thumb is to start looking at service between every 30,000-50,000 miles. Keeping your transmission maintained and checked regularly will help keep it from having any major issues or even needing to be replaced at times.
Signs that Something is Wrong in Your Transmission
- Delayed or rough gear shifts
- Grinding, clunking, or whining noises
- Leaking fluid
- Slipping gears
- Check engine light
- Burning smell
What Happens During a Transmission Service?
Like a heart, the transmission requires fluids to function properly. Transmission fluid is like blood going through the body, helping everything else to work. It is also very similar to an oil change but with a different, more specific fluid; although many older cars recommend motor oil in their gearbox. The transmission service performed changes depending on whether you have an automatic or manual transmission car.
A manual transmission is a lot easier to maintain and typically includes a transmission fluid flush and exchange. The new transmission fluid improves the holding power between the clutches so that it doesn’t slip and reduces the heat created from friction. Automatic transmission services are more complicated and may include a fluid flush and exchange, filter replacement, and pan gasket replacement. During a transmission service, a mechanic runs a diagnostic test to see if the computer sees any errors as well.
If the diagnostic shows a problem with the transmission, it may require a full rebuild to remove and replace the broken parts, which can vary greatly in price and labor.
How Often Do I Need a Transmission Service?
It is best to check your car owner’s manual for factory-recommended maintenance since each car varies greatly by make and model. However, the average vehicle needs to get a transmission fluid flush every 30,000 to 50,000 miles.
There are a lot of small particles like metal shavings that get caught up or build up in the transmission fluid and as this passes through cogs and gears, it gets stuck and wears down the various parts of the transmission. Without regular maintenance, this can lead to a need to rebuild the transmission in order to replace the worn parts.
Even though a transmission service is only necessary here and there throughout the lifespan of your car, it goes a long way to extending the life of your car and avoiding any major transmission repairs. Transmission services are one of the most often-overlooked maintenance regimes, however, failure to stay on top of them can create catastrophic issues with a vehicle, as the transmission is one of the most expensive and complicated parts of a car’s drivetrain.
To learn more about your vehicle’s recommended differential service interval, consult your vehicle owner’s manual or contact a certified technician at your nearest Lake City Auto Care Shop.
Transmission Service at Lake City Auto Care
Transmission issues are not something to mess around with. If you notice any of the above symptoms, or anything else possibly related to the transmission, you should take your car to a professional immediately. Luckily, Lake City Auto Care has you covered in the Coeur d’Alene, Hayden, and Rathdrum areas. Our ASE-certified technicians have years of experience working on transmissions and are excited to take care of you.
Schedule Today!
Don’t let unforeseen transmission problems rob you of hard-earned cash or put you in a potentially dangerous situation. Our technicians are ready for you and your car, so call or schedule an appointment for transmission service or any other general service needs now!
North Idaho's Best Warranty
We stand behind our work 100%. That's why we offer a five-year, 50,000-mile warranty on all services and repairs. You can rest assured that when you bring your vehicle to us, we've got you covered no matter what happens down the road.
Appointments (208)-856-8336