Finding anyone who will give it to you straight in the automobile industry can be difficult these days, especially when it comes to a certified transmission technician. There are some characteristics, however, which everyone should be looking for such as those in the technicians working at Trans Works Transmissions which separates a great technician from one who will probably be leaving you looking for a second opinion or repair in the end. Wonder what they are? Then read on:

Make Sure They Are Certified

Anyone who claims to be a certified transmission technician or specialist needs to be certified. They will have certification granted by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (also known as ASE). Most of these specialists will have this prominently and proudly displayed on their wall, but if they do not, don’t be afraid to ask them for proof.

The Shop Services Your Make and Model

Even if you own the most popular type of car on the market, that does not necessarily mean that the shop you choose to perform transmission work on it will be able to The first step that you need to make is to ensure that the shop actually knows how to repair you type of car and that they have both the latest equipment and the most up to date training on how to fix your vehicle.

Look for Reviews Online

The Internet is a fantastic resource for certified transmission specialists and technicians (and we at Trans Works Transmissions have gained a lot of clients through this resource). Those who have received services will be incredibly upfront about what they liked, what they had, and what they think could use a bit of a tweak or improvement. Check out the reviews, and if you are still left with questions then contact a certified transmission specialist, and he may be able to answer them.

• TIP: Check with the Better Business Bureau, or BBB. Even if all references come out positive, the BBB and the company’s social media pages are the best places to look for unbiased and honest accounts of how business was conducted and what quality of a repair they received was.

Try them with Something Small

If you will need to try out a completely new shop and can delay repair, try them out with something smaller and less significant (i.e. an oil change, a brake joke, etc.). This will help tell you whether or not the technician and their company are people whom you want to work with and who will be able to tot trust with your vehicle.

Ask About their Warranties

Most auto repair shops will offer warranties not only on the parts they sell us (which is actually a manufacturer’s warranty) but also on their workmanship. Whenever possible, choose a company, which is able to offer a guarantee on their work, and make sure that their warranty works for you and the work to be done.

We at Trans Works Transmissions have been in the business long enough to know the telltale signs of an automatic transmission repair. One of the most common and easily spotted problems: your transmission is stubborn or outright refuses to get into gear. But there are other signs that indicate that your transmission needs a repair or replacement. We’ll start with one of the most overlooked but most prominent:

Leaking Transmission Fluid

Leaking fluid is often an accepted part of running a vehicle, but it shouldn’t be. What you may think is “just a leaky air conditioner” will actually turn out to be a leaking transmission.

If your vehicle does not have enough transmission fluid present, then it will not be able to shift gears. Automatic transmission fluid usually appears to be bright red, be clear, and it may be a bit sweet smelling as opposed to other fluids in your car. If your fluid is dark in color, then you will need to have a transmission replace your fluid and see how your vehicle runs. If that doesn’t work, the next steps should help you uncover what is wrong with your automatic transmission.

Being Noisy While In Neutral

Another clear sign that your transmission needs some TLC: it’s noisy. You should not hear any strange noises when shifting gears that much almost every vehicle owner knows. But you also should not be hearing your vehicle when it is in neutral. If you are, then nipping that problem in the bud now may prevent long-term or lifetime problems with your car’s transmission.

Your Vehicle Grinds or Shakes

If you feel a grinding or a shaking sensation when your vehicle goes into a new gear, this is a clear sign that there is transmission trouble brewing. This most commonly and noticeably occurs with manual transmission; though it has been known to happen with automatic transmission (the vehicle may shimmy into the next or previous ear rather than almost seamlessly glide into the appropriate gear).

Those Whining, Clunking and Humming Sounds

Your vehicle should not make any noticeably different sounds when it operates. An automatic transition should be silent and should not hum, whine or buzz. If that happens, then your transmission most certainly needs to be looked at by us here at Trans Works Transmissions.

Irresponsive Transmission Systems

The number one sign that something is awry with you automatic transmission is the fact that it refuses to do what you tell it to do. With a manual transmission, you may be able to spot this sooner. But with automatic transmission, this problem often makes itself glaringly apparent when you try to place the car in “Park” or in “Drive.” If your vehicle hesitates to move in either direction, it is time to take it to the transmission doctors here at Trans Works Transmissions.

Sometimes it may be difficult to know when someone if performing quality work during vehicle repairs or if they are just pretending to offer quality work. Here at Trans Work Transmissions, we know that transmission repair can be costly but we are not after your money; no one ever has to worry about the services being performed because all of our work is guaranteed and all of our transmissions come with a warranty. If there are any manufactured or rebuilt defects – they will be taken care of without any additional costs to the customer.

Services that are Offered

When it comes to a broken down vehicle, we fully understand that each customer expects high quality work in a cost effective manner and delivery within a short amount of time. Our turnaround time is incomparable to many in the area and we will back up our work. We will say that your vehicle will be back on the road before you know it! The services that we specialize in are:

• Transmission Repair
• Front Wheel Drive
• Transfer Cases
• Differentials
• Standard and Automatic Transmissions
• Computerized Transmission Services

ASE Certified Technicians

Be comforted in the fact that all of our technicians are also ASE certified specializing in these particular areas:

• Motor/Mobile Home Transmission Repair
• All Wheel and 4 Wheel Transmission Repair
• Light Truck and Vehicle Transmission Repair

Gathering the Proper Information

When it comes to transmission repair, there is very little room for error because a car cannot properly function without a properly running transmission. A visual inspection will take place, as well as, a test drive and diagnostic scan. Then the technician will suggest which avenue will be best to repair the vehicle and obtain full working capacity once again.

Automatic Transmission Repair

This is typically the most intricate and complex portions of a vehicle, which is why vehicle/transmission repair, and inspections should only be handled by specially trained automotive technicians. All diagnostics and repairs that are taken care of within our location are handled with the upmost care from minor leaks to, transmission slippage; the work will be taken care of and properly fixed the first time it comes to our shop.

Having the proper equipment and experienced staff that we do has enabled us to stay open and continue to grow over the past three decades. We have the most state of the art equipment and utilize our expertise to the fullest when it comes to caring for customers’ vehicles. If there are any questions or comments, please feel free to contact one of our specialists who are eagerly waiting to assist.

Our company genuinely knows what it is like to be stressed out and what it is like to experience car troubles. Where is the money going to come from to fix my car? How am I going to get to work? How bad is the damage to my vehicle? These are probably close to some of the questions that go through people’s minds as soon as they know their cars are having a little difficulty. More times than not people tend to hope that there are not transmissions issues as well because generally transmission work gets costly.

That is why our company specializes in remanufacturing and rebuilding. We have a plethora of used transmissions for sale that can meet any budget requirements. Our staff will be more than pleased to assist any customer with their questions and financial concerns, discussing which options will be best for each particular situation at hand.

Purchasing Used

Having used transmissions for sale has been extremely beneficial for the company; we sell both manual and automatic transmissions. Being in business for over 30 years, our ASE certified technicians offer warranty and guaranteed work. We also have the ability to deliver the used transmissions for sale right to the location in which is requested. Building a great rapport between customers is important to us and has assisted us in building up our name.

The used transmissions for sale will fit the cars perfectly; there is a huge stock of different powertrain components. All the information that will need to be known is the year, make and model of the vehicle. Our technicians will take care of all of the rest so there is no need to worry about mix-matched parts.

Things to Consider About Used Transmissions

The used transmissions for sale are generally from vehicles that have been totaled out or have been badly damaged. These transmissions have been removed because the vehicles that they once were in are far beyond repair. Being that these transmissions are used and salvaged from other vehicles, inspected and then brought to the shop enables the price range to be significantly lower than it would be if purchasing a rebuilt or remanufactured transmission. This ensures the most cost effective way to repair a vehicle that is not just durable, but very reliable as well.

Making a Purchase

Purchasing one of the used transmissions for sale that our company has to offer is definitely something to consider because we have a great selection for many different types of vehicles. Anyone will find out that all of our customers leave with a smile on their faces and will always return for future service work on their vehicles. Our staff is eagerly waiting to point everyone in the right direction ensuring that a perfect solution will be created for whatever transmission issues arise.

There are many benefits to purchasing a remanufactured transmission, especially for the consumers that have created a budget for themselves. When it comes to purchasing a remanufactured transmission, there are some things to be aware of as well. Most people are concerned about having a properly functioning vehicle as quickly as possible which is why purchasing a remanufactured transmission may be the perfect solution.

Benefits of Purchasing Remanufactured

• Cost Effectiveness – costs will always be lower when purchasing a remanufactured transmission. Purchasing new is expensive and the job is very labor intensive – which leads to more out of pocket expenses.
• New pieces are used during repair/remanufacturing – when choosing a remanufactured transmission, new parts are used in conjunction to the old properly functioning parts
• Warranty – a remanufactured transmission typically comes with a warranty or the shop will guarantee their work.
• Works just like new – just because the entire transmission is not brand new, it will work just as well as a new transmission and may even work slightly better.

The Remanufacturing Process

Each piece in the transmission will be taken apart, examined, cleaned and then either repaired or replaced with a new part. Our highly professionally trained and knowledgeable staff can easily see and pinpoint the exact problem with the transmission and fix it accordingly. In this particular shop, no customer will leave dissatisfied because we know how stressful it can be to have a car that is not working properly.

The Difference between Remanufacturing and Rebuilding

For those individuals who do not know or may be questioning if there is a difference between repairing and remanufacturing, the answer is, YES. The term remanufactured transmission actually implies that the transmission has been worked on inside of a factory instead of by a rebuilding specialist. The great thing about the remanufacturing process is that all of the newest updates on parts will be included so one will receive a product back that is better than the one they had before.

Downfalls of Purchasing a Remanufactured Transmission

• Warranty Length – the length of a remanufactured transmission will not be a lengthy as purchasing a new transmission
• Proper Testing – there is always question as to if parts and remanufactured pieces go through rigorous testing before they are placed with in the vehicle

The benefits in purchasing a remanufactured transmission by far outweigh the downfalls especially for those individuals who are looking to save themselves a great deal of money. Transmission repair can be quite costly not only because of the parts costs, but because the repair includes labor intensive work – time equals money in a vehicle repair situation.

Before spending an exorbitant amount of money of replacing a transmission, consider the different options that paying for a remanufactured transmission may be the best option to go with. Not just financially, but all around.

At Trans Works Transmissions LLC, we work with transmissions and car owners every day. Often we have people phone in from distant locations to ask us to give them a quick and easy way in finding a top transmission rebuild shop in their local area.

While we can’t talk about what other businesses will or should do to guarantee customer satisfaction, we can talk about what we find important. By understanding the value a shop places in service and customers care we think you can choose a top transmission shop no matter where you may live across the country.

Experience Matters

We believe in being really good at what we do, which is to provide an in-house transmission rebuild service and to provide top quality remanufactured transmissions for sale.

To do that we have focused in on transmissions throughout our over 30 years in the industry. We don’t do brakes or engine repairs; rather we focus strictly on one component of your vehicle. Specialization is important in transmission service work, and it is highly recommended to seek out a specialist.

Consider the Staff

The shop you entrust with your transmission rebuild should hire only certified and fully trained technicians to work on your tranny. Often in general mechanic shops and garages there may be a certified technician, but he or she may only supervise or instruct on the rebuild. The actual rebuild is very likely done by someone else without a lot of specialized training or experience.

Ask about Warranty

A transmission is not a low-cost repair, even with a rebuild. Be sure to ask about the warranty before you allow any shop to start repairs. The best companies will typically have all the information easily accessible on their website.

This is a good way to compare the services provided as well as the warranty between companies to week out those you know you don’t want to use.

The Rebuild Process

Not all mechanics will consider a rebuild as the same thing. For a top transmission shop a rebuild means thoroughly cleaning, inspecting, machining or replacing worn parts, they completing factory upgrades and putting it all back together.

In some shops only those parts that completely failed will be replaced, leaving you with potential future problems somewhere down the road. As with the warranty, clarifying what is meant by the shop or garage will help select the best match for your needs.

When you get in your vehicle, put it in gear and drive off, we know the last thing passing through your mind is the condition of the transmission. We all take an automatic transmission for granted; that is until there is a problem.

Taking care of your transmission when you first buy a vehicle, regardless if it is new or used, is a good option to extend the life of the transmission as long as possible. However, as with any part of a vehicle from the tires to the engine, it is going to wear out at some point in time.

To keep our automatic running in top shape for as long as possible, there are some regular service issues to consider. These are simple and easy, and your transmission specialists can do them for you at your scheduled maintenance appointments.

Check the Fluid

It is very easy to check the automatic transmission fluid in any vehicle. Just check the owner’s manual for the location of the dipstick and check it just like you check oil levels. The fluid in the transmission is not used up like oil, and this is a sealed system.

Any decrease in the level of the fluid indicates a leak if the fluid on the dipstick is red and doesn’t smell burnt. If the fluid is low do not drive the vehicle, call a shop first to see if they recommend moving the vehicle or if it should be towed.

Burn or dark looking fluid is a very serious issue and should be an immediate trip to your automatic transmission service location.

Keep the Vehicle in Good Repair

The transmission requires cooling from the cooling system in the vehicle to be working properly to maintain the correct temperature. The engine’s vacuum system may also be used by the transmission to shift and maintain pressure.

If other components of the vehicle’s engine are not working correctly, it can lead to an increase in the risk of transmission problems.

Drive the Vehicle Responsibly

Driving the vehicle too fast, loading a vehicle down when pulling or hauling, or incorrectly changing gears, even with an automatic, can put serious stress on the automatic transmission.

Other issues include the old practice of rocking a vehicle when stuck, something we often see people still doing today. This is very damaging to new transmissions and can create the early issues leading to much bigger problems to come.

It seems there is always confusion about the term used transmissions. This is because it could be applied to several different possibilities. It could include a rebuilt tranny, a remanufactured transmission or a transmission pulled as is out of another vehicle.

To help understand what is the best option in used transmissions, let’s take a closer look at what each term really means. To make things easier, we will only consider in-house repairs done by a professional, certified transmission shop and not your local mechanic.

Rebuilt Transmission

A rebuilt transmission is your transmission, taken out of your vehicle and built again, and then replaced. With a rebuilt transmission, the entire transmission is thoroughly cleaned in-house, and then taken apart into all the various pieces and components.

Gaskets, seals, and wiring is usually replaced, and any worn parts are either machined or replaced. In addition, with a top transmission shop using certified ASE technicians, all factory upgrades for your transmission will be installed.

The unit will then be tested on a variety of computerized system and testing equipment, and then certified and put back into your vehicle with the transmission service companies warranty in place.

Remanufactured Transmission

The remanufactured transmission basically goes through the same process as the rebuilt transmission, but it is done in a specialized facility that just handles tranny remanufacturing.

There will be a state of the art equipment here too, and all certified technicians working on the transmission. A remanufactured transmission, because it is done in as specialized setting and often with manufacturer specific professionals, often has the best warranty of all the used transmissions.

Wrecker Transmission or Private Sale

The option that is most risky for the buyer, and one we don’t recommend, is to find used transmissions online or through the newspaper and buy privately. Typically this will be from a wrecking service, and they will be sold as is. A few wreckers and part companies may do some basic tests, but there is rarely if ever any type of warranty or guarantee with this purchase.

You may also want to consider if you buy the wrong model of transmission, you are usually stuck with it. We rarely find a customer happy with this type of purchase.

The key to buying rebuilt or remanufactured “used transmissions” is to work with a reputable company. We have customers we have worked with for years, and we strive to provide top quality service and customer satisfaction, which makes our transmissions a very good option.

When you’ve got a heart problem, would you prefer to go to a general practitioner, or a cardiologist? If your sink doesn’t work, would you rather have a plumber or a general handyman take a look at it? What about transmission problems? Would you prefer a general mechanic or a certified transmission specialist? In each of these cases, the general solution might work, and might even be cheaper, but you’ll probably feel better about having a specialist who is an expert in his or her chosen field.

The Importance of the Transmission
A transmission is not a part to be trifled with. It is one of the biggest, most complicated and most expensive parts on your vehicle. Without a transmission, your car or truck will not move. With a malfunctioning transmission, your vehicle may be stuck in low gear, may slip from gear to gear while driving, or may be unable to shift into reverse. Any one of these problems is a good indication that it’s time to go to the specialists at Trans Works Transmissions.

Transmission Repair
In all honesty, when you have transmission problems, there is a good chance you’re going to need a total rebuild or a new transmission. There are, however a few less expensive repairs that are occasionally warranted. This is all the more reason to bring your transmission to Trans Works Transmissions, where their trustworthy, ASE certified technicians will give you the real story on what’s wrong with your transmission and only fix what needs to be fixed. If your problem is simply a worn shift linkage or fluid line, there is no need to drop the transmission—a certified transmission repair technician can fix these problems relatively easily.

Transmission Rebuild and Remanufacture
When there is a problem inside the transmission or torque convertor, there is no choice but to take it off the vehicle and open it up. Once you’ve gone to all that trouble, you may as well go ahead and do the rebuild, and a rebuild is probably going to be necessary to fix the problem anyway. A rebuild involves the complete disassembly of the transmission. Each part gets checked by a certified transmission repair technician, and those that are damaged, worn or otherwise not up to factory specs get repaired or replaced. Then the unit is reassembled.

A remanufacture is similar, except in this case the transmission technician would rebuild the transmission to updated factory specs that include technology upgrades that have occurred since production, so that the finished product is actually better than new.

Your car is an investment which you want to protect as best you can. When it comes to a transmission failure, many people think that the only options are to purchase a new transmission or look for a new vehicle. That’s a misconception. If all of the other parts of your vehicle are still in good working condition, consider the advantages of a rebuilt transmission.

The first step when you have a transmission problem is to consult the experts at Trans Works Transmissions. We can recommend whether you should have your transmission rebuilt or replace it altogether. First, we will check the age and condition of your current failed transmission and we’ll let you know if we feel it can be rebuilt to run smoothly.

Why Consider a Rebuild?
At Trans Works Transmissions, we know cars inside out. That’s where our specialties lie and we treat your vehicle like one of our own. If we don’t feel it would be best to rebuild your transmission, we’ll tell you so. We will check the condition of your vehicle to determine if a rebuilt transmission is the best possible solution to your problem.

We Take it Apart to Put it Together
There are a few steps involved in a rebuild job. First the failed transmission is removed from the vehicle, dismantled and the problem is diagnosed. Next, all working parts will be cleaned, inspected and reassembled. Any parts that are no longer working will be replaced with working parts. If any parts are outdated and have since been upgraded by the manufacturer, we will replace them with the improved version. The transmission will be reassembled and reinstalled in the vehicle.

All Kinds of Vehicles, All Types of Transmissions
Whether your vehicle is automatic, standard or has a computerized transmission, Trans Works Transmissions can service it. We are also trained to handle foreign and domestic transmission repairs. Whether you have a car, all wheel drive transmission, 4 x 4 truck or a motor home, trust us with your transmission repair or rebuild. We have a large inventory or transmission parts and we perform in house custom rebuilds regularly. We can also offer you a warranty, so be sure to contact us for more information and to see whether a rebuilt transmission is right for your vehicle.